Soldier’s killers identified

From Panay News (Aug 13, 2021): Soldier’s killers identified (By Ruby Silubrico)

The Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) has identified those behind Wednesday’s abduction and killing of Army Corporal Frederick Villasis in Barangay Lahug, Tapaz, Capiz.

The suspects were members of the Regional Sentro De Gravidad (RSDG) platoon led by Ka Yamal under the Central Front Committee of the New People’s Army (NPA), according to Major Cenon Pancito III, 3ID spokesperson.

Charges are being prepared.

Villasis, a resident of Barangay Jaena, Tapaz, was a member of the 12th Infantry Battalion and leader of the Philippine Army’s Community Support Program (CSP) Sustainment Team in Barangay Lahug.

He and Lahug barangay kagawads Analyn Giganto and Estong Sumaria were on board two motorcycles when they were blocked by around 40 armed men.

The men took Villasis away and shot him to death from behind. They also burned his motorcycle.

Major General Eric Vinoya, 3ID commander, condemned the killing and branded the rebels as human rights violators.

“I will make sure that the sacrifice of one of our soldiers in the service of God, country and people will not be in vain. We will legally seek justice. While we mourn, we shall make sure that what our soldier started in Lahug, Tapaz will continue until we finally end the local communist armed conflict,” Vinoya added.

https://www.panaynews.net/soldiers-killers-identified/

ReCAAP Reports Five Piracy and Armed Robbery Incidents Against Ships In Asia During July

Posted to Hellenic Shipping News Worldwide (Aug 13, 2021): ReCAAP Reports Five Piracy and Armed Robbery Incidents Against Ships In Asia During July

In July 2021, five incidents of armed robbery against ships¹ were reported in Asia. No piracy² incident was reported. All five incidents were actual incidents³. No attempted incident⁴ was reported.

The ReCAAP ISC is concerned with the persistent occurrence of incidents on board ships while underway in the eastbound lane of the Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS) in the Singapore Strait. In July 2021, two incidents were reported in the Singapore Strait.
Concerned with the continued occurrence of incidents in the Singapore Strait, particularly off Tanjung Pergam, Bintan Island (Indonesia), the ReCAAP ISC issued an Incident Alert (IA 05/2021) on 19 Jul.

There was no report of abduction of crew in the Sulu-Celebes Seas and waters off Eastern Sabah in July 2021. However, the threat of the abduction of crew remains high as the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) leaders responsible for the abduction of crew in the Sulu area are still at large.

JULY 2021

NUMBER OF INCIDENTS

In July 2021, five incidents of armed robbery against ships were reported in Asia. All were actual incidents. No attempted incident was reported. All incidents have been verified and reported to the ReCAAP ISC by ReCAAP Focal Points. Refer to the Appendix for the ‘Description of incidents (July 2021)’ on pages 21-23.

Graph 1 shows the number of incidents reported each month from July 2020 to July 2021.



STATUS OF SHIPS

Of the five incidents reported in July 2021, two incidents occurred on board ships while underway in the Singapore Strait, two incidents occurred on board ships while anchored at South Harbour Anchorage area, Manila, the Philippines and one incident on board a ship while anchored at Belawan Anchorage, Indonesia.

SIGNIFICANCE LEVEL OF INCIDENTS

Of the five actual incidents reported in July 2021, one was a CAT 2 incident, three were CAT 3 incidents and one was a CAT 4 incident (where the perpetrators were not armed and crew not harmed).

CAT 2. The CAT 2 incident occurred on board a container ship while anchored at South Harbour Anchorage area, Manila, the Philippines. A perpetrator pointed an improvised gun at the duty crew, took away his two-way radio and tied him to the railing of the ship.
Seven other perpetrators then appeared on board the ship, stole one roll of new spare rope mooring line and escaped.

CAT 3. Two of the three CAT 3 incidents occurred on board bulk carriers while underway off Tanjung Pergam, Bintan Island (Indonesia) in the eastbound lane of the Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS) in the Singapore Strait. In both incidents, the perpetrators were armed with knives. The crew was not injured and nothing was stolen in the two incidents. The other CAT 3 incident occurred on board a tanker while anchored at Belawan Anchorage, Indonesia. Two perpetrators were sighted, each carrying a knife and a rod. They escaped immediately when the alarm was raised. The crew was not injured and some fire hose couplings were stolen.

CAT 4. The CAT 4 incident occurred on board a container ship while anchored at South Harbour Anchorage area, Manila, the Philippines. Two perpetrators were seen at the forecastle deck lowering some materials into their motor banca using a rope. They escaped immediately when they saw the roving crew. The crew was not injured and ship stores were stolen.

Chart 1 shows the significance level of incidents reported each month from July 2020 to July 2021.

LOCATION OF INCIDENTS

The location of the five incidents reported in July 2021 is shown in Map 1



JANUARY-JULY 2021

NUMBER OF INCIDENTS

During January-July 2021, 43 incidents of armed robbery against ships were reported in Asia. No piracy incident was reported during this period. Of the 43 incidents, 41 were actual incidents and two were attempted incidents. Compared to January-July 2020, the total number of incidents during January-July 2021 decreased by 32%. A total of 63 incidents (comprising 61 actual incidents and two attempted incidents) were reported during January-July 2020. The total number of incidents reported during January-July 2021 is the second lowest among January-July of 2007-2021. Graph 2 shows the total number of incidents reported during January-July of 2007-2021.

The decrease of incidents during January-July 2021 occurred in the following locations:

• In Bangladesh, no incident was reported during January-July 2021 compared to three incidents during January-July 2020.
• In India, three incidents were reported during January-July 2021 compared to eight incidents during the same period in 2020.
• In Indonesia, seven incidents were reported during January-July 2021 compared to 17 incidents during January-July 2020.
• In Vietnam, two incidents were reported during January-July 2021 compared to three incidents during the same period in 2020.
• In the South China Sea, no incident was reported during January-July 2021 compared to three incidents during January-July 2020.
• In the Sulu-Celebes Seas, no incident was reported during January-July 2021 compared to one incident during the same period in 2020.

The number of incidents in the Philippines during January-July 2021 is the same as that reported during January-July 2020. A total of eight incidents were reported in the Philippines during both periods.

However, there was an increase of incidents in the Singapore Strait. A total of 22 incidents were reported in the Singapore Strait during January-July 2021 compared to 19 incidents reported during January-July 2020.Full Report

Source: ReCAAP

https://www.hellenicshippingnews.com/recaap-reports-five-piracy-and-armed-robbery-incidents-against-ships-in-asia-during-july/

CPP/NPA-Central Negros: Army, fanatic group jostle over NPA bounty

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Aug 11, 2021): Army, fanatic group jostle over NPA bounty

JB REGALADO

SPOKESPERSON

NPA-CENTRAL NEGROS (LEONARDO PANALIGAN COMMAND)

NEGROS ISLAND REGIONAL OPERATIONAL COMMAND (APOLINARIO GATMAITAN COMMAND)

NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY

AUGUST 11, 2021

Central Negros New People’s Army guerrilla front Leonardo Panaligan Command (LPC-NPA) declared in a statement that 94th Infantry Battalion (IB) soldiers and fanatic group leaders jostled over cash rewards promised by government counterrevolutionary arm National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) to those who can pinpoint NPA encampments which, according to LPC-NPA spokesperson JB Regalado, resulted to recent fake encounters, murder and human rights violations.

Early this August, the Philippine Army told the public that encounters ensued between their soldiers and the NPA in Barangay Santol, Binalbagan, Negros Occidental on August 3 and 5.

But the LPC-NPA strongly contradicts this saying that on August 5 at Sitio Binigsi-an, Barangay Santol, the 94th IB connived with criminal fanatic group leader Karem Calpis in shooting two members of a Barangay Santol fanatic group.

“Henry Brial and Junior Pedro were not aware that 94th IB officials and Calpis were planning to claim their cash reward and kill them while they were guiding military combat operations,” said Regalado, “killing Brial and Pedro was all for show because an encounter between the NPA and Army troops meant additional cash rewards from the NTF-ELCAC.”

Regalado added that fanatic group leaders Karem Calpis, Luis Pedro and Tikboy Bongaita and the 94th IB are currently fighting over said cash rewards. Calpis heads the fanatic group based in Sitio Irene, Barangay Apanangon, Jimalalud, Negros Oriental while Pedro and Bongaita led fanatic groups in Barangay Santol.

Regalado identified Brial and Pedro as Luis Pedro’s members. Junior Pedro died on the spot during the shooting while Brial passed away later at the Isabela District Hospital.

Meanwhile on August 3, the said 94th IB forces with Calpis’ men peppered residences belonging to the Ponsiano and Enriquez families with gunshots at Sitio Tibak, Barangay Santol. The same Brial and Pedro presented by the 94th IB as NPA members a few days later guided them to these homes.

“The strafed houses were a short distance from the NPA’s position, of course the Red fighters ran to the defense of the residents and the exchange of gunfire lasted around 10 minutes,” confirmed Regalado.

He further said that Ponsiano and Enriquez family members have been victims of atrocities instigated by Calpis and Bongaita’s fanatic groups.

The LPC-NPA reiterated that the presence of the Armed Forces of the Philippines only caused fascism, deception, schemes and terror among the peasants in the hinterlands of La Libertad, Jimalalud and Guihulngan City in Negros Oriental and Binalbagan, Isabela and Magallon in Negros Occidental contrary to the military’s declaration of wanting “peace and development.”

The LPC-NPA called the people of Negros to firmly unite and to not be afraid in driving away the fascist troops from the countryside, dismantle the most barbaric and vicious fanatic groups, and expose and defeat the NTF-ELCAC.###

https://cpp.ph/statements/army-fanatic-group-jostle-over-npa-bounty/

CPP/NPA-Central Negros: 1 Patay, 1 Pilason sa Philippine Army sa Guihulngan

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Aug 12, 2021): 1 Patay, 1 Pilason sa Philippine Army sa Guihulngan

JB REGALADO

SPOKESPERSON

NPA-CENTRAL NEGROS (LEONARDO PANALIGAN COMMAND)

NEGROS ISLAND REGIONAL OPERATIONAL COMMAND (APOLINARIO GATMAITAN COMMAND)

NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY

AUGUST 12, 2021

Patay ang isa ka katapo sang 62nd IBPA kag 1 pilason sa sini gihapon nga tropa militar matapos ang madinalag-on nga sniping operation sang Leonardo Panaligan Command-New People’s Army sa 62nd IB Army Detachment sa Sityo Casingan, Brgy. Trinidad, Guihulngan, Negros Oriental. Gintigayon ang sniping operation sadtong Agosto 11, 2021 mga alas 6:15 sang gab-i.

Sabat ini sang NPA sa padayon nga pagpang-abuso militar sa Central Negros ilabe na ang pagpangransak sang mga kabalayan kag pagpamahug sang 94th IB sa mga mangunguma sa binukid sang Brgy. Santol, Binalbagan, Negros Occidental kag sityo Irene, Brgy Ampanangon, Jimalalud, Negros Oriental.

Tuyo lang sang 94th IBPA kag panatikong-grupo sa pagpamuno ni Brgy Councilor Karem Calpiz sang Brgy Ampanangon, Jimalalud nga hinabunan ang ila kapalpakan sa brutal nga pagpatay sa 2 ka persona nga sanday Henry Pial kag Junior Pedro sadtong Agosto 5 sang hapon sa Sityo Binigsi-an, Brgy Santol, Binalbagan.

Ginakondenar man sang LPC-NPA ang pag-abduct sang 62nd IBPA kay George Francis. Si George Francis ang isa sa ilegal nga gin-aresto sang 94th IBPA upod kay Edwardo Mission tanan sang Guihulngan matapos ang natabo nga engkwentro sadtong Agosto 3, 2021 sa Sityo Tibak, Brgy Santol, Binalbagan, Negros Occidental.

Binutig ang ginpahayag sang 94th IBPA kag sang kapulisan sa PNP-Binalbagan nga ginhilway si George Francis matapos ang 36 oras nga reglamentary period kag wala man sang nagakaigo nga ebidensya sadtong Agosto 3, 2021.

Dako ang pagkabalaka kag kahangawa sang pamilya ni George Francis nga ang ila himata wala pa sa ila poder tubtob subong. Nagakabalaka ang pamilya kay basi himuon naman nga giya sang 94th IB kag 62nd IBPA sa ila operasyon militar sa kabukiran kag patyon naman kaangay sang natabo sa ila ni Henry Pial kag Junior Pedro.

Ginapanawagan sa pumuluyo nga indi na magpa-into sa mga pasalig sang pasistang militar kag sa rehimeng Duterte sa ginatanyag sini nga E-CLIP sang NTF-ELCAC.

Ginapanawagan man ang tanan nga yunit sang NPA idalum sa Leonardo Panaligan Command sa paglunsar sang madinalag-on nga taktikal nga opensiba sa paghatag sang nagakaigo nga hustisya sa mga biktima sang pagpang-abuso militar kag militarisasyon sa kaumahan.

Untaton ang militarisasyon! Isulong ang armadong rebolusyon para sa matuod nga reporma sa duta kag pungsodnon nga industriyalisasyon!

https://cpp.ph/statements/1-patay-1-pilason-sa-philippine-army-sa-guihulngan/

CPP/NPA-Sorsogon: Espiya ng AFP sa Sorsogon, pinarusahan

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Aug 12, 2021): Espiya ng AFP sa Sorsogon, pinarusahan

SAMUEL GUERRERO

SPOKESPERSON

NPA-SORSOGON (CELSO MINGUEZ COMMAND)

BICOL REGIONAL OPERATIONAL COMMAND (ROMULO JALLORES COMMAND)

NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY

AUGUST 12, 2021

Isinakatuparan ng mga mandirigma ng NPA ang sentensyang kamatayan na inihatol ng Probinsyal na Hukumang Bayan ng Sorsogon kay Jonatahan Escolano alyas Marvin, 37, nitong Agosto 10 sa Barangay Sangat, Gubat. Iniutos ng rebolusyong hukuman ang pagpaparusa sa kanya sa kasong pagtataksil at pang-eespiya sa rebolusyonaryong kilusan.

Si Escolano ay dating kasapi ng NPA na sumuko sa reaksyunaryong estado noong 2019. Mula noong sumuko ay naging ahente siya ng 96th Military Intelligence Company (MICO) at naging aktibo sa mga operasyong paniktik laban sa rebolusyonaryong kilusan laluna sa mga bayan ng Gubat at Barcelona at sa Sorsogon City. Siya ang pangunahing pinakilos ng 96th MICO at 31st IBPA para sindakin at sapilitang “pasukuin” ang mga sibilyang kapitbahay niya sa Sangat at mga katabing baryo ng Gubat na pinagbintangang kaanib ng rebolusyonaryong kilusan. Siya ang nagtanim ng ebidensyang baril at granada na isinangkalan para arestuhin ang dating NPA na si Ruel Escullar sa Barangay Herrera, Gubat noong nakaraang Marso. Si Escullar ay matagal nang umalis sa Hukbo at namumuhay bilang sibilyan.

Ginawang hanapbuhay ni Escolano ang pag-hunting sa sinumang mapagbibintangang NPA. Bukambibig niya sa mga inuman ang halagang makukubra niya sa bawat isang maipadakip o “mapasusuko” niya. Pinakahuling operasyon ng 96th MICO at Gubat PNP na nilahukan niya ang pagdakip kay Nilo Enconado, isang dating Pulang mandirigma, sa Alabang, Muntinlupa City nitong nakaraang buwan. Sinampahan si Enconado ng walong gawa-gawang mga kaso.

Ang pagpaparusa kay Jonathan Escolano ay bahagi ng tuluy-tuloy na pagsisikap ng NPA na kamtin ang hustisya para sa masang Sorsoganon na ginigipit ng mga ahente ng pasistang rehimeng Duterte.

https://cpp.ph/statements/espiya-ng-afp-sa-sorsogon-pinarusahan/

Kalinaw News: TESDA at CTEC Pantukan Naglunsad ng Skills Training sa 48th Infantry (Guardians) Battalion

Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 12, 2021): TESDA at CTEC Pantukan Naglunsad ng Skills Training sa 48th Infantry (Guardians) Battalion



Pantukan Davao de Oro – Naglunsad ng Skills Training na Organic Agriculture Production NCII ang Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) sa 25 na mga sundalo na binubuo ng mga meyembro ng CSP, CDT at CAFGU Active Auxiliary (CAA) ng 48th Infantry (Guardians) Battalion katuwang ang Community Training and Employment Coordinators (CTEC) ng Pantukan sa Headquarters 48IB, Purok 14B Tagaytay, Brgy Magnaga, Davao de Oro ika- 11 ng Agosto 2021.

Ang nasabing training ay isang maikling kurso na naglalayong mabigyan ng kaalaman ang mga CAA at sundalo para sa paggawa ng organic farm products kasama ang organic supplements katulad ng fertilizer, concoction o sabon at extracts. Ito ay magsisilbing prequel activity para sanayin ang mga People’s Organization kasama ang Indigenous Peoples na naninirahan sa mga Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAS) at iba pang vulnerable communities. Ang naturang aktibidad ay pormal na bunuksan sa pangunguna ng TESDA Davao de Oro Provincial Director Jasmin Neri at Davao del Norte Provincial Director Remegias G. Timonio, 48IB Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel Enrique G. Rafael at CTEC of LGU Pantukan Mr Ferdinand Sanchez. Binigay naman ni Ms Jennifer O Capongpongan, Scholarship Focal, TESDA Davao del Norte ang Training Induction Program. Tiniyak naman ng mga bumubuo ng Skills Training na mapanatili at masunod ang IATF protocol habang isinasagawa ang nasabing training. Ayon kay PD Timonio “Tuturuan natin ang mga katutubo tungkol sa agrikultura. Kaya meron tayong training ng Organic Agriculture Production NC II.Convergence po tayo and TESDA ang nangunguna from input to production to marketing to sustainability. That’s one way of helping our IP community kaya napakalaki ng role ng ating mga sundalo kasi kayo ang magsisilbing Community Based Trainer. With our partnership, marami po tayong magagawa. Magtulungan po tayo para po maisakatuparan ang sabi ng ating Presidente na wakasan ang insurgency.” “I never hesitate to be here in 48IB, that being in collaboration with the men in uniform because we always embrace the mission, vision and goal of TESDA that we always work as a team, as a convergence in the delivery of services. This training means you will capacitated to be trainers and educators in your respective communities,” pahayag naman ni PD Neri. Dagdag ni Mr Sanchez, “Sa message sa atoang Mayor rest assured daw na unsa man ang mga kalihukan especially sa atong 48th Infantry naa lang jud siya, 101% ang iyang support sa inyo. Unsa pa ang pwede niya itabang, ipaabot lang sa amoang opisina kay dili siya mag duha-duha nga ihatag kung unsa man ang mga panginahanglan.” Lubos naman ang pasasalamat ni LTCOL Rafael sa kasanayan na igagawad ng TESDA upang magkaroon ng dagdag kaalaman ang mga CAA at tropa ng Guardians Battalion. Aniya, buo ang suporta ng Guardians Battalion sa lahat ng programa ng LGUs lalo na sa Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) ng PTF-ELCAC na pinangungunahan ng TESDA.

[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/tesda-at-ctec-pantukan-naglunsad-ng-skills-training-sa-48th-infantry-guardians-battalion/

Kalinaw News: 1st Infantry Division installs new 10IB Commander

Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 12, 2021): 1st Infantry Division installs new 10IB Commander



CAMP SANG-AN, ZDS – The former Assistant Chief of Staff for Personnel, G1, of the 1st Infantry Division assumes as the new commander of the 10th Infantry Battalion in a change of command ceremony Tuesday, August 10, at the 10IB headquarters in Brgy. Burgos, Oroquieta City, Misamis Occidental.

Lt. Col. Angestal L. Angeles II took over the command from Lt. Col. Ray C. Tiongson, who will be designated as the new Division Personnel Officer, the position vacated by the former.

The assistant division commander Brig. Gen. Bagnus P. Gaerlan Jr., presided the transfer of command and challenged the newly installed 10IB commander to continue the outstanding performance of the 10IB.

Likewise, Brig. Gen. Gaerlan appealed to the local chief executives and the different national and local government agencies to continue supporting the NTF ELCAC and let the people in the remote barangays feel and take advantage of the services of the Army and the Philippine government.

The outgoing commander thanked the 1ID leadership for the chance to lead the 10th Infantry Battalion and serve the province of Misamis Occidental and the areas of Zamboanga del Sur and Zamboanga del Norte.

“I am deeply honored to be an Army infantry officer and command this prestigious unit whose troops are known as heroes of the Battle of Marawi and now the warrior peacekeepers of Malindang,” said Tiongson.

Meanwhile, Angeles also expressed his gratitude to the 1ID commander Maj. Gen. Gene Ponio for believing in his ability to serve the Steady-On Battalion.

He also assured the stakeholders present during the ceremony that the battalion will continue to show its support and assistance to their plans, projects, and programs to develop and improve the well-being of the people in Misamis Occidental.

Angeles urged the officers of 10IB to enable its soldiers to focus on their job without additional burdens in mind, strengthen their operations in CMO with its stakeholders’ participation, and lead them toward selfless private and government partnership, which empowers people-centered volunteerism.

“Together, let us win the peace. We owe it to those who came before us; we owe it to ourselves and our people. Together, let us build a community that we can all be proud of,” Angeles added.

Angeles, an Airborne and Special Forces officer, is a member of the Officer Candidate Course Class of 2001.

[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/29818-2/

Kalinaw News: 11ID concludes first Alakdan squad challenge

Posted to Kalinaw News (Aug 12, 2021): 11ID concludes first Alakdan squad challenge



August 12, 2021, Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista Jolo, Sulu – Yesterday, 11th Infantry Division (11ID) Commander MGen William N Gonzales lead the culmination of the first Alakdan Squad Challengen at Division Training School, Brgy Tagbak, Indanan, Sulu.

According to 11ID Asssistant Chief of Staff for Operation, Ltc Herbert D Dilag, the squad challenge was a competition amongst selected squads from six organic infantry battalions of the division.

“We want to push our squads, the smallest fighting unit of the infantry, to its best in terms of organizational cohesion and operational proficiency. Hence, theirs skills in map reading, land navigation, assembly and disassembly of weapons, obstacle course with endurance firing battle drills and Disaster Response and Rescue Operations were tested in this three-day competition,” said Ltc Dilag.

During the closing ceremony, MGen Gonzales awarded the competitors from 45th Infantry Battalion as champions. Aside from individual medals, they had the honor of taking home the Alakdan Challenge Perpetual Trophy.

Meanwhile, 41st Infantry Battalion and 100th Infantry Battalion placed second and third, respectively.

In his speech, MGen Gonzales congratulated all the participants and the training committee for being part of the Alakdan Challenge.

“This is a milestone, and from now on this competition will be an annual tradition. The Alakdan Challenge shall build our confidence, this shall make us believe that our unit’s greatest asset is our soldiers. Our excellence, courage and sincerity will be our the best weapon against peace spoilers.” – MGen Gonzales

[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/11id-concludes-first-alakdan-squad-challenge/

PH-USA joint training enhances country’s maritime law enforcement capabilities

Posted to Palawan News (Aug 12, 2021): PH-USA joint training enhances country’s maritime law enforcement capabilities (By Shoogar Santos)

Members from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Philippine National Police – Maritime Group (PNP-MG), and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) conduct a vessel boarding exercise. (Photo from U.S. Embassy in the Philippines)

Instructors from the United States Coast Guard (USCG) completed a four-week Advanced Boarding Officer Course with Philippine maritime authorities, bolstering US-Philippine collaboration and improving maritime law enforcement capabilities.

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) was the focus of the July 12-23 training, while participants from the Philippine National Police-Maritime Group (PNP-MG) and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) attended the July 26-August 6 program, the U.S. Embassy in Manila said in an issued statement.

The interagency training drew a total of 42 participants from the Philippines.

The training built on prior USCG courses held over the preceding two years by stressing more difficult scenarios and tactics for previous graduates of Basic Boarding Officer Courses and others with comparable experience.
- Advertisement -

The PNP-MG, on the other hand, supplemented the USCG curriculum by teaching maritime enforcement concepts, investigations, chain of custody, and supporting prosecutions, all while stressing the need of interagency collaboration.

Three PCG graduates from the July 12-23 training were retained as assistant instructors for the second training, showing the Philippines’ commitment and capacity to handle more advanced training in the future, said the statement.

USCG looks forward to continued interagency activities with Philippine agencies as they cultivate and expand their training programs.

https://palawan-news.com/ph-usa-joint-training-enhances-countrys-maritime-law-enforcement-capabilities/

Kids of NPA victims get assistance

From the Visayan Daily Star (Aug 12, 2021): Kids of NPA victims get assistance (BY GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

The symbolic check of the P50,000 turned over by the City Social Welfare and Development Office and Mayor Carlo Jorge Roan Reyes to the orphaned children of a couple killed by suspected NPA rebels in Brgy. Trinidad, Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental early this year* CRSAFP photo

Orphaned children, who had witnessed the summary execution of their parents by suspected New People’s Army rebels on May 13 in Sitio Lower Budlasan, Brgy Trinidad, Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental, received a cash grant of P50,000 from Cebu-based private groups Tuesday, the Philippine Army said yesterday.

The turnover of financial assistance by the City Social Welfare and Development Office, in behalf of Renault Lao, who organized the Heroes Adventure Challenge in Cebu, to the orphaned children of slain couple Rodrigo and Cerelina Lubay, was held at the office of Guihulngan City Mayor Carlo Jorge Roan Reyes.

The Lubay couple was among the four civilians killed by NPA rebels in the hinterlands of Guihulngan City, with the two other victims identified as Ronilo Quirante and Roger Fat, allegedly in retaliation for the death of 10 rebels during an encounter with the 62nd Infantry Battalion troopers in Sitio Agit, Brgy. Trinidad, Guihulngan City, on March 23.

The encounter also resulted in the seizure of several high-powered firearms, Brig. Gen. Inocencio Pasaporte, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, said, adding that the Lubay couple was shot dead by rebels in front of their children.

The assistance came from the proceeds of the Heroes Adventure Challenge, that was jointly organized by the Active Hub Fitness Center and the Bike and Brews, in partnership with the Armed Forces of the Philippines Central Command.

It was a non-competitive virtual sporting event composed of run, bike distance, and bike elevation categories from July 10 to August 10 in Cebu City.

Dubbed as the “Hope of the Nation”, the first leg of the Heroes Adventure Challenge was intended for the scholarship program of the children affected by the armed conflict between the government forces and the rebels in Guihulngan City, the AFP said.

Reyes thanked the donors for their assistance to the orphaned children.

“May this initiative reach all parts of the Philippine archipelago and achieve its desired purpose of creating awareness in finally ending this senseless armed conflict that only destroys the lives of people,” Reyes said.

The scheduled second leg of the Heroes Adventure Challenge will benefit Army soldiers, who were injured while performing their duties in securing the Visayas region communities, the statement added.

https://news.visayandailystar.com/kids-of-npa-victims-get-assistance/

Sayyaf luring recruits, releases guidelines for jihadists

 From the Mindanao Examiner (Aug 12, 2021): Sayyaf luring recruits, releases guidelines for jihadists

THE SITE Intelligence Group reported that an Abu Sayyaf-linked account has called for new fighters and provided guidelines for aspiring jihadists and promoting the pursuit of “martyrdom.”

A screenshot of the account also shows this warning “As long as we are alive, kuffar is our enemy.” Kuffar or Kafir is an Arabic term which refers to a person who disbelieves in God or denies the authority of God. It is often translated as infidel, unbeliever, nonbeliever or pagan.

The report, released August 12, is only accessible to members of the SITE Intelligence Group, an American non-governmental organization that tracks online activity of white supremacist and jihadist organizations. It was previously known as the Search for International Terrorist Entities Institute.

Philippine authorities could not confirm the report, but said an alleged Abu Sayyaf member was captured by the police on August 12 in the village of Santa Catalina in Zamboanga City, adding, a hand grenade and a .38-caliber revolver and ammunition were seized from the 19-year old suspect.

The SITE Intelligence Group has previously reported ISIS attacks in the Philippines and among them were the twin suicide bombings of the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Cathedral in Sulu province in January 2019 that killed and wounded dozens of soldiers and civilians. And also the suicide attack of a Moroccan ISIS soldier Abu Katheer al Maghribi in Lamitan City in Basilan province in July 2018 that killed at least a dozen soldiers manning a roadblock. (Mindanao Examiner)

http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2021/08/sayyaf-luring-recruits-releases.html

Oldest living Filipino Korean War vet marks 99th birthday

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 12, 2021): Oldest living Filipino Korean War vet marks 99th birthday (By Ben Cal)

OLDEST FIL-KOREAN WAR VETERAN. Retired Maj. Max Young, the oldest living Filipino Korean War veteran, celebrates his 99th birthday on July 30, 2021. Young thanked God after he recovered from severe pneumonia, not once, but four times early this year. (Contributed photo)

Retired Maj. Max Young, the oldest living Filipino Korean War veteran, celebrated his 99th birthday last July 30, thanking God after he recovered from severe pneumonia, not once, but four times early this year.

Young is concurrently the president of the Philippine Expeditionary Force to Korea (PEFTOK), wherein former President Fidel V. Ramos, now 93, is a member.

From the original 7,420 PEFTOK troopers, only 174 are living as of Aug. 10, 2021, all of them in their late ‘80s and ‘90’, Young said.

In an exclusive interview, Young said he was first rushed to the University of the East Medical Center in Quezon City gasping for breath on Feb. 3 and was released a week later.

“But again on Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14, I was back in the hospital, but was discharged a few days later only to be brought again on Feb. 20, and stayed at the hospital for a week,” he said.

“I thought everything was okay, but on March 27, I was again brought to the hospital when I was diagnosed of pneumonia by Dr. Isagani Rodriguez,” Young said.

During four times he was in the hospital, Young’s second wife, Mercedes (first wife is Norma), their nine children and their respective families that include 37 grandchildren and great grandchildren, prayed for the healing of Young, a decorated hero of the Korean War as tank commander during the Yultong fierce gun battle that earned him the highest military medal given by the South Korean government to a soldier for gallantry in combat.

“We thank God and the intercession of the Blessed Mother for answering our prayers for the healing of my husband,” said Mercedes, a Marian devotee.

She attributed the healing a “miracle at a time that the deadly pandemic Covid-19 is raging.”

Young’s children, all from first wife (Norma), are Walter, 71, the eldest, William, Wilbert, Winston, Wilmar, Wandra, Wilson, May, and Warren, 61, the youngest.

The 99-year old Young was also a guerrilla fighter during World War 2.

During the interview, Young said he is looking forward "to celebrate my 100th birthday in 2022 with God’s blessing.”

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1149992

12 Army 6ID officers promoted to higher ranks

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 12, 2021): 12 Army 6ID officers promoted to higher ranks (By Noel Punzalan)

PROMOTED. Major Gen. Juvymax Uy, Army’s 6ID commander, pins the new rank insignia to one of the promoted soldiers during ceremonies held Wednesday (Aug. 11, 2021) inside Camp Siongco in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao. Twelve commissioned soldiers (inset), including a lieutenant colonel, were promoted to the next higher rank during the activity. (Photos courtesy of 6ID)

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – Twelve commissioned officers, including a lieutenant colonel, had been promoted to the next higher rank in Central Mindanao, the Army’s 6th Infantry Division (ID) announced here Thursday.

In a simple ceremony, Maj. General Juvymax Uy, 6ID commander, led here the donning of the new rank to Lieutenant Colonel Clairemont Pinpin who was promoted to the rank of a full-fledged Colonel.

Eleven other commissioned officers promoted to the rank of Major were Captains Jesser Jay Java, Jay Paris Cabatic, Eric Aprosta, Dommy Bulquerin, Howard Ardedon, Arnel Siladan, Raul Obaob, Benjamin Mendez, Jose Lagadon, Rodrigo Sinoy Jr, and Michael Angelo Diquiatco.

The activity was held on Wednesday afternoon at the Makatao Hall of this camp.

“As I always say, with promotion come bigger responsibilities,” Uy told reporters here in an interview Thursday.

Uy stressed that the promotion of the soldiers would not only reflect on their kind of leadership in the future but also their indefatigable dedication to the military service and mandate to protect communities at all costs against enemies of the state.

“It is not a reward of what was done well, but a recognition that more has to be done hence, I urge you to continue to give your best in everything that you do,” he said.

Also in attendance during the activity were Brig. Gen. Jose H. Narciso, 6ID assistant commander, and Col. Michael A Santos, 6ID chief, among others.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1150176

NPA rebels ‘execute’ Army's dev't program leader in Capiz town

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 12, 2021): NPA rebels ‘execute’ Army's dev't program leader in Capiz town (By Perla Lena)

MURDERED. Cpl. Frederic K. Villasis, team leader of the Philippine Army’s Community Support Program (CSP) in Barangay Lahug, Tapaz in Capiz province, was killed by a group of New People's Army rebels on Wednesday afternoon (Aug. 11, 2021). His brutal killing was condemned by the Western Visayas Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict and top military officials in the region. (PNA photo courtesy of 12IB, Philippine Army)

New People's Army rebels on Wednesday afternoon snatched and killed a leader of the Philippine Army's (PA) Community Support Program (CSP) Sustainment Team in Barangay Lahug in the municipality of Tapaz in Capiz while on his way to follow up on development projects for the village.

Cpl. Frederic K. Villasis of the 12th Infantry Battalion (12IB) and Lahug councilors Analyn Giganto and Estong Sumaria were on board two motorcycles when they were cut off by a group of rebels in Sitio Owa of the said barangay.

The three were on their way to the municipal hall to follow up on a water system and other development projects.

Maj. Cenon Pancito III, spokesperson of the PA's 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) said on Thursday that based on the information gathered from the locals, around 40 rebels were scattered in groups in the area.

The rebels singled out Villasis as his hands were tied and then was shot three times at the back while the two civilians were made to lie down and were later set free, Cenon said.

The CSP in Lahug culminated in March this year but 33-year-old Villasis, a resident of Sigma, Capiz led a Sustainment Team or left-behind force to prevent the NPA from regaining its influence in the barangay.

“The left-behind force ensures that there is no vacuum and prevent the CPP-NPA to regain Lahug, given that the barangay is within the guerrilla base of the enemy,” Cenon said.

The CSP is the Army's people-centered program to bring peace and development in conflict-affected barangays and an initiative to bring the government closer to the people through an immediate delivery of basic services.

Condemnation

The Western Visayas Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF6-ELCAC) and top military officials in the region expressed their strong condemnation of the brutal killing.

“This is clearly an act of terror designed to undermine the peace efforts of the government in the hinterland barangays of Tapaz, Capiz. This barbaric and inhumane act will not go unpunished. Those responsible will be held accountable and shall be brought to the bars of justice,” said task force spokesperson Assistant Provincial Prosecutor Flosemer Chris Gonzales, in a statement released on Wednesday evening.

Gonzales said the rebels have shown that they are “terrorists to the core” and unless and until every member of the armed movement has surrendered or neutralized, peace will be impossible.

The task force also offered its condolences to the victim's family and assured them that his heroism will not be forgotten.

Brig. Gen. Marion R. Sison, commander of the 301st Infantry Brigade, in a statement on Thursday, called on the public to denounce communist terrorism and condemn the senseless violence.

“Our soldiers are working to give our people a better life, by paving the way for peace and development. His murder is nothing but a cowardly act of desperation by the communist terrorist group who has been continuously losing their mass-based support in the island of Panay,” he said.

Maj. Gen. Eric C. Vinoya, commander of the 3ID, in another statement, said justice will be sought for the soldier’s death and appropriate criminal charges will be filed against the culprits.

“While we mourn for the fall of another hero, we shall make sure that what our soldier has started in Lahug, Tapaz will continue until we finally end the local communist armed conflict,” he said.

Villasis left behind his wife and two children.

The Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA 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/1150202

1ID gets 10K UK-donated AstraZeneca jabs

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 12, 2021): 1ID gets 10K UK-donated AstraZeneca jabs (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

The 1st Infantry “Tabak” Division (1ID), the premier command of the Philippine Army, has received 10,192 doses of AstraZeneca vaccines from the government of the United Kingdom.

Capt. Mary Jephte Mañebog, 1ID information officer, said Thursday that the AstraZeneca vaccines they received are part of the donation of the British government for uniformed personnel deployed in different parts of the country.

Mañebog said the vaccines are intended for the first and second doses of some 5,096 troopers.

She said the inoculation for the first dose started Wednesday and is scheduled to end on Sunday.

Vaccination activities are held at the Tabak gymnasium by the personnel of the Camp Maj. Cesar Sang-an Station Hospital, Department of Health (DOH) provincial office, and 9th Regional Community Defense Group (9RCDG).

Lt. Col. Jussel Parlan, Camp Maj. Cesar Sang-an Station Hospital chief, said the inoculation will protect the troops who are prone to infection with coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) being among the front-liners.

“We will not only protect ourselves from infection but we will also protect the people we serve,” Parlan added.

Dr. Agnes Fernando, team leader of the DOH provincial office, said Thursday that the immunization will prevent a person from severe Covid-19 infection.

“That means your body is capable to respond to symptoms given by the micro-organism. The infection can be just mild and moderate.” Fernando said.

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Generoso Ponio, 1ID commander, thanked the UK government for the donation of the AstraZeneca vaccines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1150234

TESDA trains residents of 3 insurgency-cleared NegOcc villages

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 12, 2021): TESDA trains residents of 3 insurgency-cleared NegOcc villages (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

TESDA TRAINING. The launching activity of the community-based skills training and other livelihood interventions led by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority in Barangay Codcod, San Carlos City, Negros Occidental on Aug. 5, 2021. Some 63 beneficiaries from three insurgency-cleared villages are attending various training this month. (Photo courtesy of TESDA-Negros Occidental)

A total of 63 residents of three insurgency-cleared villages in San Carlos City, Negros Occidental have been identified as beneficiaries of the community-based livelihood skills training and other livelihood interventions from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

In a report on Thursday, TESDA-Negros Occidental said the trainees are from Barangays Codcod, which has 22 participants; Quezon, 21; and Nataban, 20.

On August 11, the group from Quezon started the training on Organic Concoction and Extracts Production while those from Nataban began the sessions on Raising Organic Hogs.

The participants from Codcod will start the Carpentry National Certificate II Training on August 16.

In a statement, TESDA VI regional director Jerry Tizon encouraged the beneficiaries, who belong to the marginalized and vulnerable sectors, to work hard to overcome life’s adversities, which he did being a son of a fisherman.

“These programs will enable you to be progressive skilled workers. Never waste the opportunity given to you. The knowledge you will gain can never be robbed from you,” he added.

TESDA-Negros Occidental Acting Provincial Director Romelia Nuezca said the beneficiaries are availing of the training for free under the agency’s Special Training for Employment Program.

They will also receive free assessment, internet allowance, one-year accident insurance, health/personal protective equipment allowance, starter toolkits, and a training support fund of PHP160 per day.

The training programs are being implemented by TESDA under the Poverty Reduction Livelihood and Employment Cluster of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

In San Carlos City, five barangays have been identified as insurgency-cleared, or no longer under the influence of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).

Aside from Codcod, Quezon, and Nataban, the two others are Buluangan and Guadalupe.

They are among the 26 villages in Negros Occidental included in the Local Government Support Fund-Support to Barangay Development Program (LGSF-SBDP) under the NTF-ELCAC.

The BDP is a hallmark program of the NTF-ELCAC with the end goal of bringing development to former conflict-prone communities.

Each of the insurgency-cleared villages has been allocated PHP20-million assistance, including one-kilometer farm-to-market road worth PHP12 million; classrooms, PHP3 million; water and sanitation systems, PHP2 million; health station, PHP1.5 million; and livelihood projects, PHP1.5 million.

The CPP-NPA 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/1150288

9 Army officials promoted in CDO

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 12, 2021): 9 Army officials promoted in CDO (By Nef Luczon)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – Some 9 captains of the Army's 4th Infantry Division (4ID) at Camp Brig. Gen Edilberto Evangelista here have been promoted to the rank of Major for their meritorious records.

The 4ID said in a statement on Thursday the nine have met the length or required years of their previous rank and continued education as part of the promotion requirements.

The newly promoted officers were Mayer Camaganacan, Dennis William Villanueva, Ernesto Corodova Jr., Al Anthony Pueblas, Teopisto Rubi Jr., Victor Perez Jr., Raul Plaza, Jiselle Joy Maybanting, and Larry Beldia.

Maj. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., commander of the 4ID, said an official promotion means that the Philippine Army not only recognizes their military achievements but their continuing dedication and commitment to serve the country.

“As you move up the ladder, may you not forget to look back and mentor your junior officers and fellow soldiers to encourage them to continue excelling in their chosen field. Know that every soldier matter in the continued success of our organization," he said during the ceremony.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1150279

AFP renews commitment to uphold int'l humanitarian law

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 12, 2021): AFP renews commitment to uphold int'l humanitarian law (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Photo courtesy of AFP

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reaffirmed its commitment towards a strengthened implementation of the International Humanitarian Law (IHL), as the country commemorates IHL Day on Thursday.

“I congratulate all AFP members for continuously uplifting and protecting the Filipino people; promoting their rights especially during this time of the pandemic,” said AFP chief, Lt. Gen. Jose Faustino, Jr., in a statement.

Military officers and personnel joined uniformed and civilian government agencies, and other partner institutions in the virtual reading of the pledge of commitment which was led by AFP Center for Law of Armed Conflict (AFPCLOAC) director, Brig. Gen. Joel Alejandro Nacnac.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), which chairs the IHL Ad Hoc Committee, is leading this year’s celebration which is anchored on the theme, “Upholding the Law of Armed Conflict Amidst the Covid-19 Pandemic: Protecting Humanity for Healing and Recovery”.

This highlights the continuous advocacy and awareness-raising on the value of IHL, especially during the pandemic.

The IHL month celebration in the country started on August 9 through a virtual ceremony facilitated by the AFPCLOAC.

The DFA also conducted a virtual seminar that tackled how the principles of IHL provide additional safeguards to people and are crucial to the efforts of societies to respond, recover, and build resilience towards a post-pandemic future.

August 12 was declared as IHL Day by virtue of Executive Order 134 signed by former President Joseph Estrada in 1999.

This observance coincides with the anniversary of the Geneva Conventions of 1949, which is a set of international treaties that form the core of IHL and to which the Philippines is a contracting party.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1150226

PNP anti-insurgency funds not used for political agenda: Palace

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 12, 2021): PNP anti-insurgency funds not used for political agenda: Palace (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque (File photo)

Malacañang on Thursday said the anti-insurgency funds allotted to the Philippine National Police (PNP) are not being used for political purposes.

“Unang-una, hindi po ‘yan for politics, hindi po ‘yan for political purposes (First and foremost, [the funds] are not used for political purposes),” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said in an online presser after Senator Panfilo Lacson flagged the PNP’s “suspicious” use of funds for the “data-gathering” activities.

On Tuesday, Lacson called out the PNP for supposed illegal data-gathering activities being done in several villages.

Lacson, a former PNP chief, said the police force must not engage in partisan politics using public funds.

Roque said the PNP is just doing its activity to maintain peace and order in the country.

“Hindi po iyan gagamitin sa pulitika. Matagal na pong ginagawa iyan ng pulisya, maski po ’yung panahon ni Senator Lacson eh nagkaroon na po tayo ng active police cooperation (The funds will not be used for politics. The police force has been conducting such activity, even during the time of Senator Lacson, there was already active police cooperation),” he said.

Roque also echoed the recent statement of PNP chief, Gen. Guillermo Elazar, that obtaining information from civilian organizations is merely a “product of volunteerism” intended to strengthen the partnership between the police and community in the fight against criminality, illegal drugs, and terrorism.

He said the cooperation between the PNP and the community is vital to reduce crime incidence in the country.

“Importante po iyan dahil sa ngayon po talaga eh matindi ang laban natin hindi lang po laban sa mga terorista na nag-aaklas laban sa gobyerno kundi pati po doon sa mga drug interests (That is important, especially now that we are fighting the terrorists fighting the government, as well as the drug personalities),” Roque said.

Last week, Lacson named Directorate for Police-Community Relations chief, Maj. Gen. Rhodel Sermonia, as the official behind the PNP’s alleged census using the National Task Force Against Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) funds in different villages nationwide.

Lacson also said the census might be linked to next year’s elections.

The PNP has denied Lacson’s allegation, saying it is implementing an approach that deepens police-community relations programs by working with different communities nationwide, including non-government organizations and advocacy groups.

Eleazar, responding to Lacson, said the government and the PNP are just bent on helping Filipinos, including those who belong to long-neglected communities.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1150238

DND verifying presence of Chinese research vessel in WPS

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 12, 2021): DND verifying presence of Chinese research vessel in WPS (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana (File photo)

The Department of National Defense (DND) on Thursday said it is now verifying reports about the alleged presence of a Chinese research vessel off Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal in the West Philippine Sea.

"We are verifying the report of the alleged presence of a Chinese research ship spotted near Panatag Shoal in the West Philippine Sea," Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said in a statement.

Lorenzana said the country's next course of action will be based on the facts that will be gathered by the maritime patrols in the area.

"Rest assured that the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) through the Northern Luzon Command, undertakes regular domain awareness operations and provides all the necessary support to the Philippine Coast Guard and other agencies to secure and implement our laws in our territorial waters and the EEZ (exclusive economic zone)," the DND chief added.

Reports quoted Ryan Martinson, an assistant professor at the China Maritime Studies Institute-US Naval War College, as saying that a Chinese research vessel was recently spotted off the coast of Zambales.

In a Twitter post on Wednesday, Martinson said the Chinese ship 'Hai Da Hao' is currently operating "65 nm (nautical miles) east of Scarborough Shoal".

He added that the ship is operated by the China Ocean University.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1150267

Local terrorism, plague that worsens pandemic: Medialdea

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 12, 2021): Local terrorism, plague that worsens pandemic: Medialdea (By Gigie Arcilla)

Executive Secretary Salvador C. Medialdea (File photo)

A Palace official on Thursday lamented that the government’s ongoing efforts to confront the unseen coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) are greatly burdened by local communist terrorist groups.

Palace Executive Secretary Salvador C. Medialdea, in his message in observance of the International Humanitarian Law (IHL) Day, said while the humanitarian efforts of our Armed Forces of the Philippines prove how highly the military organization values civilian lives, local terrorists continue with their atrocities against the Filipino people..

“In stark contrast to all this, the more traditional enemies of our Armed Forces, instead of giving people a much-needed respite from armed conflict and violence during this pandemic, have chosen to continue with their reprehensible activities,” Medialdea said.

Local communist groups, he said, have waylaid both government and private mercy missions that were delivering vaccines and food to far-flung areas, adding that they continued to destroy properties of government and of private businesses that do not give in to their extortion.

“Most tragic of all, communist and extremist groups have continued murdering innocent civilians in pursuit of their terrorist aims," he said referring to the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army – National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).

He added that NPA’s blatant use of anti-personnel mines (APM), a violation of IHL, left many dead, if not maimed, including Kieth and Nolven Absalon, who were killed while biking in Masbate province on June 6.

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

“But our obligation as a government to protect our people at all times, which IHL constantly reminds us of, inspires us to be strong and focused in bringing about healing and recovery in these difficult times,” Medialdea said.

He lauded the AFP for adhering to the guiding principles of IHL and Republic Act No. 9851, the country’s IHL law, in dealing with the acts of terror.

“Consistent with its aim of protecting human lives as shown in various humanitarian activities, the Armed Forces is careful, in its military operations, to act consistent with the rule of law, the well-being of civilians at all times, and the transparency and accountability of all State actions,” he said.

He added that it is gratifying to witness this very mindset is already manifesting itself in the operations of the AFP which is the mindset that IHL hopes to instill among all armed forces around the world,

He said government agencies in charge of the administration of justice are also acting towards the same end thus, the filing of cases against terror personalities or referral to the Commission on Human Rights for further investigation.

“In all this, we have strengthened our continuing engagements with the International Committee of the Red Cross, the global monitor on IHL compliance,” he said.

AFP’s crucial role in pandemic response

He cited the AFP’s significant contribution to the protection of civilian lives against Covid-19 through its crucial role in the government’s pandemic response – way beyond its normal deployment to defend Filipinos against armed attacks.

“More than 2,000 military doctors, nurses, and medical staff are currently deployed to some 250 treatment and quarantine facilities throughout the country, both inside and outside of camps, all of which are secured with the support of military and paramilitary personnel and reservists, together with the Philippine National Police,” he added.

The AFP, he said, also assisted more than 60,000 civilians in their return to their provinces to decongest major cities, with the use of military land, sea, and air crafts.

These same modes of transport were used to distribute more than two million pounds of medical equipment and supplies, and three million food packs around the country through relief operations conducted with private partners, Medialded added.

Peoples protection

Almost two years into the Covid-19 pandemic, he said, the Philippine government under President Rodrigo R. Duterte administration remains determined to protect the people from the dreaded disease.

“Our efforts – from the implementation of community quarantine, testing, tracing, and treatment protocols, to the provision of social amelioration – have been allaying individual fears of sickness and death while addressing the economic uncertainties of households and communities. A mass vaccination campaign is now in full swing, steadily leading our people towards herd protection and immunity,” he said.

This year’s IHL Day celebration is themed “Upholding the Law of Armed Conflict Amidst the Covid-19 Pandemic: Protecting Humanity for Healing and Recovery”.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1150299