52 ex-NPA rebels receive housing units in DavNor

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 14, 2021): 52 ex-NPA rebels receive housing units in DavNor (By Che Palicte)

NEW HOUSES. Ka Kaloy (left), a former member of the communist New People's Army (NPA), and his wife pose for a photo in front of their house after the turnover ceremony on Tuesday (Oct. 12) at the Freedom Residences in Barangay Cuambugan, Tagum City in Davao del Norte. He is among the beneficiaries who received the housing units under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) of the government. (Photo courtesy of 1001Bde)

A total of 52 former rebels (FRs) of the New People's Army (NPA) have received their new housing units under the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP), the Army’s 1001st Infantry Brigade (1001Bde) said in a statement Thursday.

Capt. Roberto Escalona, the 1001Bde civil-military operations officer, said the turnover ceremony was at the Freedom Residences in Barangay Cuambugan, Tagum City on Tuesday.

He said the ECLIP project is in collaboration with the National Housing Authority (NHA) 11 (Davao Region), the 1001Bde, the Army’s 10th Infantry Division, the Tagum City government, the Freedom Residences Homeowners’ Association, and other stakeholders.

“The FR’s are surrenderers under the 1001Bde covering the period from 2018-2020,” Escalona added.

The ECLIP is a government program specifically designed to help the former rebels start new lives.

The project provides beneficiaries with a PHP15,000 initial cash assistance, PHP50,000 livelihood assistance, housing assistance, capacity building, and training, among others.

Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. Jesus Durante III, the 1001Bde commander, congratulated the beneficiaries and hoped that the housing units would help usher in new opportunities for them.

“We will still be always ready to assist you, as you start your new lives,” he said.

Durante also called on other members of the NPA who are still in the mountains, waging armed struggle against the government, to return to the fold of the law.

“Look at your former comrades who chose to surrender; they are now living normal lives together with their families,” he said.

“Let us put an end to these 53 years of deceit, lies, atrocities, and terroristic activities which put so many sufferings to our fellowmen,” he added.

A certain "Ka Kaloy," one of the beneficiaries, thanked the government for the housing units turned over to them.

“We are very happy and this is a dream come true. We have seen the sincerity of the government in their programs and how they make their promises happen,” he said in the vernacular.

Kaloy also urged his comrades to return to the fold of the government.

The NPA, together with the Communist Party of the Philippines and the National Democratic Front, 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/1156611

Rebels kill CAFGU tasked to secure equipment for gov't project

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 14, 2021): Rebels kill CAFGU tasked to secure equipment for gov't project (By Perla Lena)

GUNNED DOWN. Citizen Armed Forces Geographical Unit Active Auxiliary Dwight Misinas was killed by members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) in Barangay Masaroy, Calinog in Iloilo on Oct. 13, 2021. The victim's group is deployed in the barangay to secure the heavy equipment used for the ongoing government project in the area. (Photo courtesy of PA 3ID)

A member of the Citizen Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) was killed when an estimated 10 New People's Army rebels fired upon the victim's group in Barangay Masaroy in Calinog, Iloilo on Wednesday morning.

In an interview on Thursday, Captain Dadje Delima, chief of police of the Calinog Municipal Police Station (MPS), identified the fatality as CAFGU Active Auxiliary (CAA) Dwight Misinas, 25, single and resident of Barangay Camalungo of the said town.

The victim was deployed in the area to secure the heavy equipment used in the ongoing concreting of the farm-to-market road (FMR) in the barangay.

It was learned that Misinas and two other CAAs were on their way back to their detachment after fetching water from a nearby well around 8:20 a.m. when "along the way they were fired upon by an estimated 10 members of the communist terrorist group,” Delima said.

The victim was killed on the spot due to multiple gunshot wounds, Delima said, while the other two CAAs were unhurt.

The rebels were estimated to be positioned around five to 10 meters away from the victim's group.

The gunmen fled after the shooting and snatched the victim’s M-16 rifle.

“There is still an ongoing clearing operation in the area after the hot pursuit operation that was conducted right after the incident,” said the chief of police.

Barangay Masaroy, which is situated 20 kilometers away from the town proper, remains NPA-infested.

In a statement, the Philippine Army said the CPP (Communist Party of the Philippines)-NPA resorted to killing the government troop because they were unsuccessful in their plan to burn the heavy equipment being used in the government project.

“The CPP-NPA Terrorist is once again showing their real condition as a dying organization. They are no longer capable of harming the communities and government forces through attacks; hence, they employed deceitful and cowardly actions,” said Major Gen Benedict Arevalo, commander of the Philippine Army 3rd Infantry Division (3ID).

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1156648

Gov’t concretes ‘road to peace’ in Sulu

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 14, 2021): Gov’t concretes ‘road to peace’ in Sulu (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

ROAD TO PEACE. Local government and military officials are shown in the photo during the opening prayer of the groundbreaking that signaled the start of the “road to peace” project in Barangay Kabbon Takas, Patikul, Sulu on Wednesday (Oct. 13, 2021). The village was a former stronghold of the Abu Sayyaf group. (Photo courtesy of 11ID)

The government is undertaking a road concreting project dubbed as “road to peace” in a former stronghold of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in the province of Sulu.

Maj. Gen. William Gonzales, Army’s 11th Infantry Division (11ID) commander, said Thursday the road connects Sitios Timbang and Minjay of Barangay Kabbon Takas, Patikul, to Barangay Lower Sinumaan, Talipao.

The concreting of the road, which started after the groundbreaking Wednesday, is facilitated by the Patikul Municipal Task Force in Ending Local Armed Conflict (MTF-ELAC), the 1st Engineering District, and the 11ID.

The TF-ELAC is Sulu’s counterpart of the Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict.

Gonzales noted that Barangay Kabbon Takas has been deserted since becoming “ground zero” of several skirmishes between the government forces and ASG bandits over the past several years.

On Nov. 20, 2020, the MTF-ELAC brought home the internally displaced persons (IDPs) of Kabbon Takas, following 11ID's successive gains of the campaign for peace.

Ahajuli Ahajani, barangay chair of Kabbon Takas, expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the continuous support given to their village.

“I am thankful for the support we [have] received in our barangay. It is a big help to the residents of Kabbon Takas since 60 percent of our agricultural livelihood is in Sitio Minjay. It will be easier for us to bring our products to the market,” Ahajani said.

“It is just like a dream for me that we were able to return home and to see that there are many developments taking place in our barangay,” he added.

Gonzales said that the Sulu TF-ELAC also earlier turned over solar streetlights and covered court projects to the residents of Barangay Kabbon Takas.

He said the former IDPs also became beneficiaries of the Special Area for Agricultural Development Program of the Department of Agriculture empowering the locals to manage a poultry farm.

Gonzales pledged the full commitment of the 11ID for inclusive and sustainable economic development in Barangay Kabbon Takas, Patikul.

He urged the barangay officials and the residents of Kabbon Takas to help them have sustainable peace and development in the village.

“Rest assured that the ASG bandits can no longer return here since we are here and we will not abandon you,” he added.

President Rodrigo Duterte, accompanied by Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, led the activation of the 11ID on Dec.17, 2018, to serve as the unit dedicated to fighting the ASG in Sulu.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1156650

8 IPs ‘duped’ into joining NPA yield in Sultan Kudarat

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 14, 2021): 8 IPs ‘duped’ into joining NPA yield in Sultan Kudarat (By Edwin Fernandez)

DECEIVED. The eight former NPA guerrillas who belonged to the Manobo Dulangan tribal community in Bagumbayan, Sultan Kudarat pose for a photo with the military, following their surrender on Thursday (Oct. 14, 2021). They also turned in 13 firearms and three explosives during their surrender. (Photo courtesy of 6ID)

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – Some eight members of the Manobo Dulangan indigenous peoples community in Sultan Kudarat province, who claimed to have been promised support for their families in exchange for joining the communist New People’s Army (NPA), surrendered to the military on Thursday.

Lt. Col. Romel S. Valencia, Army’s 7th Infantry Battalion (7IB) commander, said the surrenderers also turned in 13 firearms and three explosives during the surrender rites in Barangay Masiag, Bagumbayan, Sultan Kudarat.

Aley Danyan alias Ka Dandan, the leader of the surrendering group, said they belonged to the Platoon My Phone of the NPA East Daguma Front South Regional Command–Far South Mindanao Region.

He added that they were recruited to join the NPA with the promise that the organization will provide support to their families.

“I have been with the NPA for several years as sub-leader but it did no good to my family. The NPA promised to support my family but it remained a promise until now,” Danyan said in the vernacular in a phone patch interview.

“We left our families for a useless cause. Now I am thankful that 7IB helped us to surrender and start a new life with our families,” he added.

The surrendered firearms and explosives include eight 12-gauge shotguns, two .22 caliber rifles, one Carbine rifle, one .38 caliber revolver, one 12-gauge homemade pistol, two hand grenades, and one improvised explosive device.

“Let us move forward to end this long decade of insurgency for the future of our next generation,” Valencia said in a separate phone interview by reporters here.

The former NPA combatants received initial assistance from Bagumbayan Mayor Jonallete de Pedro who also endorsed the returnees to the Sultan Kudarat provincial government for their inclusion in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program of the government.

Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, the Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander, lauded the 7IB and other stakeholders for saving the lives of the IP members.

“Through the support of the local government units, it enabled the government troops to successfully encourage the NPA combatants in Sultan Kudarat Province to return to the folds of the law,” said Uy, also concurrent head of the Joint Task Force Central.

He called on the remaining members of the NPA to abandon their armed struggle and start a peaceful and sustainable life with their families.

The NPA, together with the Communist Party of the Philippines and the National Democratic Front, is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1156678

No coercion in Aklan university's surrender of subversive books

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 14, 2021): No coercion in Aklan university's surrender of subversive books (By Perla Lena)

SUBVERSIVE BOOKS. Personnel of the Aklan Police Provincial Office (APPO) account for the subversive books that were turned over to them by the Aklan State University (ASU) in Aklan on Sept. 24. ASU Student Regent Apple Jeanne Villanueva said on Thursday (Oct. 14, 2021) there was no coercion when the university decided to surrender the books. (File photo courtesy of Banga Municipal Police Station, Aklan)

The pullout of 13 subversive books and documents from the libraries of the five campuses of the Aklan State University (ASU) on Sept. 24 was voluntary.

Thus, said ASU Student Regent Apple Jeanne Villanueva in an interview over "Laban Kasama ang Bayan" program of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) via SMNI News Channel on Thursday.

Villanueva said there was no coercion and interference from the Aklan Police Provincial Office (APPO) when the university decided to give up the books.

APPO, she said, requested for a dialogue with university officials to discuss the turnover of the reading materials.

“I would like to reiterate that the management decided on its own to turnover those subversive materials. The turnover activity was clearly voluntary,” Villanueva said.

During the process of preparing for the turnover, school authorities found out that there was no record to prove the books were read by students even if they have been in the library since 2012.

Villanueva added that she could not see the logic why members of the Makabayan bloc in the House of Representatives are complaining about the turnover of subversive books when in fact, there was never a violation.

"With regards to the house resolution of the Makabayan Bloc, hindi ko po ma gets ang logic kung bakit po sila nag rereklamo sa turnover activity when in the first place wala naman po talagang violation na nangyari. Wala pong interference nangyari within the Aklan PPO and the NTF-ELCAC," she said.

She added that she favors the pullout of those books because ASU students are focused on their studies and do not engage in communist activities.

There are many ways to become critical thinkers, she said, disputing claims that the surrender of the books deprived them to practise critical thinking.

“During the dialogue, I heard that the university is willing to support the government, especially the initiatives of the APPO and the NTF-ELCAC in safeguarding the future of students in the Aklan State University,” she added.

Meanwhile, Col. Ramir Perlito Perlas, in the same program, said before the turnover, they wrote a letter to ASU President, Dr. Emily Arangote, for a possible dialogue on the memorandum order of the legal cluster of NTF-ELCAC on the duty of the CHED (Commission on Higher Education) in banning subversive documents vis-à-vis academic freedom.

He added that they proposed if they can take a look at their libraries but the university volunteered to do it on their own, pulled out the subversive books, and surrendered them to the APPO.

On Sept. 24, upon invitation of the ASU management, APPO received the 13 books from the university.

One of the books was authored by Jose Ma. Sison titled “Foundation for Resuming the Philippine Revolution”.

On Oct. 13, the Makabayan bloc filed a resolution asking for a congressional inquiry on the pullout of books from two universities in Luzon and ASU.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1156712

Gov't, MILF deploy peace, security team in Zambo Sibugay town

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 14, 2021): Gov't, MILF deploy peace, security team in Zambo Sibugay town (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

SECURITY TEAM. A member of the Joint Peace and Security Team (JPST) receives his brassards during the activation and deployment on Tuesday (Oct. 12, 2021) in Barangay Datu Tumanggong, Tungawan, Zamboanga Sibugay. The JPST is a peace-keeping team deployed in areas mutually identified by the Philippine government and Moro Islamic Liberation Front. (Photo courtesy of Westmincom Public Information Office)

The Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) announced Thursday that a Joint Peace and Security Team (JPST) has been deployed in Barangay Datu Tumanggong, Tungawan, Zamboanga Sibugay.

The JPST is a peace-keeping force deployed in areas mutually identified by the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). It is one of the transitional mechanisms established under the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB).

The JPST, which was activated Tuesday, is composed of 30 members that include seven Army troops, eight policemen, and 15 MILF members.

Col. Antonio John Divinagracia, 102nd Infantry Brigade deputy commander, said the activation and deployment of the JPST is a result of continuing multi-stakeholder peacebuilding efforts.

“This is a great stride towards the attainment of our coveted peace not only in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) but the entire Mindanao region,” he said.

“This is also the time that the government is in dire need of the cooperation, coordination, and collaboration of the communities for the achievement of this goal. Rest assured that the men and women of the 102nd Infantry Brigade will always be your partner towards peace and progress in the region,” he added.

The newly-activated JPST was deployed in Barangay Datu Tumanggong, which is the home of the MILF’s 113th Base Command.

One of the highlights of the JPST activation was the donning of blue berets and brassards of the members of the JPST-Tungawan.

The Westmincom said alongside the road map toward the establishment of BARMM, a normalization process is being implemented by both the government and MILF.

Under the CAB signed between the government and MILF in 2014, the JPSTs have been tasked to support the maintenance of peace and order and stability in areas that will undergo the decommissioning process.

The decommissioning process is under the normalization track of the CAB, which aims to help MILF combatants make the transition toward a peaceful civilian life, while their communities are made progressive, and resilient.

The activation and deployment of the JPST were witnessed by officials of the military, police, BARMM, Office of Presidential Peace Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity, municipality of Tungawan, and provincial government of Zamboanga Sibugay.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1156624

PH-US Balikatan exercises to go 'full scale' in 2022

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 14, 2021): PH-US Balikatan exercises to go 'full scale' in 2022 (By Priam Nepomuceno)

GOING FULL BLAST. AFP chief Gen. Jose Faustino Jr. (right) and US Indo-Pacific Command chief Adm. John Aquilino (left) hold a virtual presser on the sidelines of the Mutual Defense Board and Security Engagement Board meeting in Camp Aguinaldo on Thursday (Oct. 14, 2021). Faustino said the annual "Balikatan" exercises between the Philippines and United States will go full scale next year. (Photo courtesy of AFP)

The annual "Balikatan" exercises between the Philippines and United States will go full scale next year, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Jose Faustino Jr. said Thursday.

"Yes, the relationship between our two Armed Forces especially now that for this MDB-SEB (Mutual Defense Board and Security Engagement Board) activity, we have lined up number of activities that will further strengthen the bilateral relationship between our two militaries and as mentioned, we will go full scale 'Balikatan' next year," Faustino said in a virtual presser shortly after the 2021 MDB-SEB meeting in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

He also added that cooperation between the AFP and the United States has improved when it comes to maritime security, humanitarian assistance disaster relief, cyber security and also information sharing among others.

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the holding of the "Balikatan" exercises was canceled in 2020.

Meanwhile, the number of activities and participants during this year's exercises held from April 12 to 23 was scaled down in compliance with health and safety protocols.

US Indo-Pacific Command head, Adm. John Aquilino, who was present at the MDB-SEB, said the alliance between the two countries continues to grow stronger.

"We value the capabilities, capacity, expertise that our Philippine counterparts bring but its strengthened by our increased operations and exercises together. Gen Faustino has the lead for the next 'Balikatan', I believe we will look to renew and get back to a full scale event and we will both look for opportunities to increase the complexity, the scope all the way to look towards new partners participating in the future," Aquilino said.

Faustino and Aquilino’s meeting resulted in the successful completion of the MDB-SEB, ensuring continued, robust relations between American and Filipino forces.

The US and Philippines agreed to hold over 300 activities for 2021.

“We were privileged to witness the advancing level of cooperation, and communication that both the Philippines and United States impart through the successful MDB-SEB meeting. I am optimistic that our alliance will continue to be robust in view of new and emerging security challenges that confront our nations. After all, we share the same goal of keeping peace and stability in this region,” Faustino said.

The MDB was established in 1958 and the SEB was established in 2006.

The two boards form the annual MDB-SEB, which coordinates a framework for defense and security cooperation between the US and Philippine militaries.

“For more than 100 years, the people of our two countries have shared a deep friendship. This friendship is based on values, to include upholding freedom for all people,” Aquilino said.

“The sanctity of freedom was the foundation of our alliance and it is still applicable today," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1156657

DND chief accepts new Black Hawk choppers, aerial drones

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 14, 2021): DND chief accepts new Black Hawk choppers, aerial drones (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Photo courtesy of DND

Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana has formally accepted five S-70i "Black Hawk" combat utility helicopters and four units of ScanEagle unmanned aerial system (UAS).

Lorenzana and Philippine Air Force (PAF) chief, Lt. Gen. Allen Paredes, led the acceptance and blessing of these equipment in a short ceremony Wednesday at the Clark Air Base, Pampanga.

In a statement Thursday, Lorenzana said these additional assets are seen as “crucial in keeping our communities and people safe from traditional security threats and disasters".

“With additional four long-endurance, low-altitude ScanEagle unmanned aerial vehicles, our aerial reconnaissance and surveillance capabilities will be enhanced. With five more Black Hawks, the Philippine Air Force (PAF) can now better provide prompt and sustained day and night tactical heli-lift and combat and non-combat search and rescue operations,” he added.

The PAF has an order of 16 S-70i helicopters from Polish company Polskie Zaklady Lotnicze Sp.z.o.o. worth USD241 million (about PHP11.5 billion).

The first six were delivered in November 2020 while the second batch of five was delivered this June.

One unit from the initial six units delivered in the country crashed last June 24 while on a night-flying exercise.

The latest S-70i helicopters turned over to the PAF on Wednesday are the third and last batch which was delivered well ahead of its delivery schedule originally set before the end of this year.

Meanwhile, the four ScanEagle UAS turned over by the US military are worth PHP200 million.

These platforms will provide additional capabilities in unmanned intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and in support of counter-terrorism, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts.

Meanwhile, 10 UH-ID helicopters, which were acquired in 2013 to 2014, were also decommissioned.

PAF spokesperson, Lt. Col. Maynard Mariano, said UH-ID were retired as these have already served their purpose.

These helicopters were acquired from the US-based Rice Aircraft Services Inc. from 2013 to 2014 as an interim solution for the PAF's relief transport requirement.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1156674

Australian navy chopper crashes in PH waters; crew safe

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 14, 2021): Australian navy chopper crashes in PH waters; crew safe (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

SEAHAWK. The MH-60R Seahawk is the Royal Australian Navy's next-generation submarine hunter and anti-surface warfare helicopter. It is equipped with a highly sophisticated combat systems designed to employ Hellfire air-to-surface missiles and the Mark 54 anti-submarine torpedo. (Photo courtesy of the Royal Australian Navy)

An Australian Navy helicopter has crashed in Philippine waters while transiting east of Luzon on Wednesday night, its crew sustaining minor injuries.

In a statement Thursday, the Australian Defence Ministry said the three crew members on board were rescued after ditching the chopper in the Philippine sea.

The Royal Australian Navy MH-60R Seahawk helicopter was operating from HMAS Brisbane as part of a Regional Presence Deployment with HMAS Warramunga when the crew conducted an emergency landing in the water.

HMAS Brisbane deployed sea boats and rescued the crew approximately 20 minutes later. The crew received first aid upon their return to HMAS Brisbane.

The incident was immediately reported to the Armed Forces of the Philippines, which is currently coordinating with its Australian counterpart to extend possible assistance if needed.

"Per report from the Royal Australian Navy, the ships were conducting a number of navy-to-navy engagements with partner nations in Southeast and Northeast Asia," AFP spokesperson, Army Col. Ramon Zagala said Thursday.

Both HMAS Brisbane and Warramunga are searching the area for any debris to find out the cause of the incident.

“With the aircrew safe, investigating the circumstances that led to the helicopter ditching is the priority at the moment. As a precaution, we have temporarily paused flying operations of the MH-60R Seahawk fleet," said Rear Admiral Mark Hammond, Commander of the Australian Fleet.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1156686

MILF: Turkey-based Foundation for Human Rights and Freedoms and Humanitarian Relief (iHH) continues to support Bangsamoro Peace Process

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Website (Oct 14, 2021): Turkey-based Foundation for Human Rights and Freedoms and Humanitarian Relief (iHH) continues to support Bangsamoro Peace Process (By Muhammad Musa, Luwaran)



COTABATO CITY – The Turkey-based Humanitarian Relief Foundation (IHH) continues to support the Bangsamoro Peace Process through their programs and services rendered to Bangsamoro people and active participation in the Third-Party Monitoring Team (TPMT) that is mandated to review, assess, evaluate and monitor the implementation of the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) and its Annexes.

IHH Country Representative Omer Kesmen said during his guesting at Kaunlaran sa Bangsamoro talk show of Bangsamoro Multimedia Network (BMN) Inc. Saturday, October 02, translated by Khairia Malusay, the Secretary General of Muslim International Students Association, “During the peace process the IHH was part of that journey, nandun sila, nakasubaybay sila, nakisali sa panawagan doon sa buong struggle ng Bangsamoro community (they were there, they were able to follow, they joined the call there throughout the struggle of the Bangsamoro community).”

Kesmen said, “Yung role number one is magbigay ng serbisyo para dun sa pagtulong sa mga Bangsamoro people; secondly, yung kanilang tutulungan kung maari ay lahat na ng orphans (Role number one is to provide services to help the Bangsamoro people; secondly, those they will help if possible are all orphans).”

He told BMN that orphans are vulnerable sector of society that needs care, descent home and access to education. “They are special people it can be considered as blessings in the earth that has required special attention because they don’t have any more parents,” he said.

“Sa pamamagitan ng humanitarian relief, humanitarian services na ino-offer ng IHH dun nila nakikita na makakatulong sila sa peace process dito sa atin (Through humanitarian relief, humanitarian services offered by IHH, they see that they can help the peace process here with us)”, said Kesmen.

According to Ustadhza Anisa Taha, who is taking care of the orphans, the IHH orphanage center has 101 orphans in Tamontaka and there are 68 children aged 7 to 12 years old in Kakar, Poblacion 8, all in Cotabato City.

Ustadhza Taha said that they have two priority programs for orphans, “May live-in at distance at may allowance na 1,156 pesos kada buwan sa anim na lugar ng (There is live-in and distance and there is an allowance of 1,156 pesos per month in six areas of) Central Mindanao, Southern Mindanao, Lanao Region, Zamboanga peninsula, Basilan at Davao region.”

Kesmen added that aside from taking care the orphans, they have also Qurban and Ramadhan program they are conducting annually and he said this is a way to tighten their relationship to the Bangsamoro people.

“Sa kanila daw sa IHH ang meaning ng Qurban para sakanila ay para maging close yung relationship nila sa atin dito sa Bangsamoro parang (To them at IHH, the meaning of Kurban for them is to make their relationship with us close here in the Bangsamoro) as if it is just not a way of helping but it is also a way of making them feel that they belong to us,” he said.

“IHH is keep on working and working to help the Bangsamoro people and to render services that they could give. Their dream is to make that every Bangsamoro would be able succeed and they are dreaming of being part of the success of the Bangsamoro,” Kesmen emphasized.

The organization was established in 1992 during the war in Bosnia. By that, they initiated to create a foundation that will help the victims.

?HH is an Islamic charity group that was formed to provide aid to Bosnian Muslims in 1992 and has been involved in aid missions in Pakistan, Ethiopia, Lebanon, Indonesia, Iraq, Palestine, Sudan, Somalia, Ghana, Mongolia, China, Brazil, Argentina and other places including Bangsamoro in the Philippines.

[Luwaran is the official online publication of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Committee on Information, MILF Central Committee]

https://www.luwaran.com/news/article/2396/turkey_based_foundation_for_human_rights_and_freedoms_and_humanitarian_relief__ihh__continues_to_support_bangsamoro_peace_process

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: Olalia-Alay-ay Murder Case: Utak ng krimen ang dapat parusahan—PKP

Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis (Tagalog edition) posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 14, 2021): Olalia-Alay-ay Murder Case: Utak ng krimen ang dapat parusahan—PKP

ANG BAYAN | OCTOBER 14, 2021

Binati ng Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas ang naging hatol ng korte noong Lunes laban sa tatlong sundalong imbwelto sa kasong Olalia-Alay-ay noong 1986, subalit sinabing labis itong naantala at bigong idiin ang tunay na mga utak sa krimen.

Hinatulan ng Antipolo Regional Regional Trial Court Branch 97 nitong Oktubre 12 ang tatlong kasapi ng Reform the Armed Forces Movement (RAM) sa brutal na pagpatay kina lider-manggagawang si Rolando “Ka Lando” Olalia at drayber niyang unyonista na si Leonor Alay-ay. Ito ay pagkaraan ng 35 taong paghahanap ng hustisya ng mga pamilya ng mga biktima at ng sambayanan.

Ginawaran ng hukuman ng 40 taong pagkabilanggo o reclusion perpetua ang mga sundalong sina Fernando Casanova, Dennis Jabatan, at Desiderio Perez. Inatasan din ang bawat isa ng hukuman na bayaran ang mga pamilya ng mga biktima ng kabuuang halaga ng ₱2.1 milyon bilang bayad-pinsala. Gayunman, nakalaya pa rin ang siyam na iba pang akusadong kasapi ng RAM na sina Col. Oscar Legaspi, Cirilo Almario, Jose Bacera, Ricardo Dicon, Gilbert Galicia, Felomino Maligaya, Gene Paris, Freddie Sumagaysay at Edgar Sumido.

Si Ka Lando ay tagapangulo noon Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) at tagapangulo ng Partido ng Bayan (PnB). Dinukot siya, kasama ang kanyang drayber na si Alay-ay, sa Julia Vargas St., Pasig City noong Nobyembre 12, 1986. Kinabukasan, natagpuan silang patay sa Antipolo, Rizal. Halos hindi na makilala ang kanilang mga bangkay dahil sa maraming bakas ng pagpapahirap bago sila sinaksak at binaril sa ulo.

“Patunay ng bulok na reaksyunaryong sistema ng hustisya na sa nakaraang 35 taon ay ipinagkait sa mga biktima ang katarungan,” ayon kay Ka Marco Valbuena, chief information officer ng Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas. “Malala pa, pawang mga utusan ang hinatulan ng korte. Sa halip na papanagutin at parusahan, ang mga pasistang utak o mastermind ay malaya at nagpapakasasa sa kapangyarihan at karangyaan.”

Dismayado naman si Teddy Casiño, tagapagsalita ng Bayan Muna, sa “sobrang tagal” na panahon bago natamasa ang hustisya para sa pamilya nina Olalia at Alay-ay, at sa sambayanang Pilipino. Ayon nga kay Elmer “Bong” Labog, tagapangulo ng Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU), dapat pangalanan at parusahan ang mga tunay na maysala.

Pinaniniwalaang sina Juan Ponce-Enrile, na nagsilbing Defense Minister ni Corazon Aquino, at ang noo’y mga tauhan niyang sina Col. Gregorio “Gringo” Honasan at Col. Red Kapunan ang tunay na utak sa likod ng krimen. Pawang nakalusot sila sa kaso batay sa mga teknikalidad. (Sa kabuuan, ang orihinal na 13 sinampahan ng kasong “double-murder” ay may mataas na katungkulan sa RAM.) Si Kapunan ay inabswelto ng korte noong 2016.

Sina Enrile, Honasan at Kapunan ay nagpakana ng bigong kudeta na “Oplan God Save the Queen” upang “linisin” umano ang gubyernong Aquino ng mga “komunista.” Idinawit nila sa kanilang imbing pakana ang lider manggagawang si Olalia.

Ang mga lider ng RAM ay binigyan ng amnestiya ng rehimeng Ramos at inabswelto sila sa kasong pagpatay kina Olalia at Alay-ay. Sina Enrile at Honasan ay naging mga senador (si Honasan ay naging kasapi ng gabinete ng kasalukuyang rehimen at tatakbo muli sa pagka-senador sa halalang 2022). Si Kapunan naman ay hinirang ni Duterte na embahador ng Pilipinas sa Myanmar at Germany.

Umusad lamang ang kasong pagpatay kina Olalia pagkatapos ng 21 taon nang inatasan ng Korte Suprema ang mga mababang hukuman na pwede nang lumarga ang kaso. Tila takot ang mga hurado na hawakan ang kaso, sabi pa ni Atty. Rico Rolando Olalia, anak ni Ka Lando na naging abugado para sa mga biktima.

[In the face of the rapidly changing political and economic situation in the Philippines, as well as around the world, the newspaper Ang Bayan publishes daily news and analysis on key issues facing the proletariat and the Filipino people, as well as the oppressed people among others. Here you will find the latest news and articles of Ang Bayan.]

https://cpp.ph/angbayan/olalia-alay-ay-murder-case-utak-ng-krimen-ang-dapat-parusahan-pkp/

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: Pinuno ng CHR, pumanaw

Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis (Tagalog edition) posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 13, 2021): Pinuno ng CHR, pumanaw

ANG BAYAN | OCTOBER 13, 2021

Nagpahayag ng pakikiramay at pagkilala ang iba’t ibang mga progresibong grupo sa pagkamatay noong Oktubre 9 ng pinuno ng Commission on Human Rights (CHR) na si Jose Luis Martin Gascon. Ayon sa pamilya ni Gascon, namatay siya sa sakit na Covid-19 sa edad na 56.

Si Gascon ay hinirang na pinuno ng CHR noong 2015 ni Benigno Aquino III, dating presidente ng Gubyerno ng Republika ng Pilipinas (GRP). Dati siyang kasapi ng Liberal Party at kabilang sa mga grupong “sosyal demokrata” mula noong panahon na siya’y lider-estudyante sa University of the Philippines noong dekada 1980.

Ang CHR ay ahensya ng GRP na binuo sa ngalan ng pagtataguyod sa mga karapatang-tao, ngunit kadalasan ay nagsisilbi para pagtakpan ang malalalang mga paglabag sa karapatang-tao ng mga armadong pwersa ng estado.

Subalit sa ilalim ni Gascon naging aktibo ang CHR sa pag-imbestiga sa mga kaso ng paglabag sa karapatang-tao at pagtuligsa sa mga ekstra-hudisyal na pamamaslang sa ilalim ng “gera sa droga” ni Rodrigo Duterte. Noong 2018, nagbanta ang rehimen na bigyan ng ₱1,000 badyet ang komisyon. Aktibo siyang nakipagtulungan sa mga organisasyong masang pambansa-demokratikong na isa sa pangunahing target ng panunupil ng rehimen.

Ayon sa Karapatan, matatag na pumanig si Gascon sa mga tagapagtanggol ng karapatang-tao sa harap ng mga atake ni Duterte laban sa kanya at sa CHR. Tinanggap ng CHR ang mga biktima ng paglabag sa karapatang-tao, mga bilanggong pulitikal, at kanilang mga kapamilya. Nakipagtulungan din ang komisyon sa mga organisasyon sa karapatang-tao, dagdag pa ng Karapatan.

Nagpaabot din ng pasasalamat ang Save Our Schools Network sa pakikiisa ni Gascon sa pakikibaka ng mga estudyanteng Lumad. Nagpahayag naman ng kalungkutan ang grupong Kapatid, mga kamag-anak at tagapagtanggol ng mga bilanggong pulitikal.

Marami ang nangangamba na sasamantalahin ni Duterte na magpwesto ng isa na namang retiradong heneral o sinumang pabor sa kanyang mga pasistang patakaran bilang kapalit ni Gascon.

[In the face of the rapidly changing political and economic situation in the Philippines, as well as around the world, the newspaper Ang Bayan publishes daily news and analysis on key issues facing the proletariat and the Filipino people, as well as the oppressed people among others. Here you will find the latest news and articles of Ang Bayan.]

https://cpp.ph/angbayan/pinuno-ng-chr-pumanaw/

CPP/NPA-Sorsogon: Mga magsasaka at barangay official ang “pinasusurender” at ginigipit ng 31st IBPA at Sorsogon PMFC!

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 14, 2021): Mga magsasaka at barangay official ang “pinasusurender” at ginigipit ng 31st IBPA at Sorsogon PMFC!

SAMUEL GUERRERO

SPOKESPERSON

NPA-SORSOGON (CELSO MINGUEZ COMMAND)

BICOL REGIONAL OPERATIONAL COMMAND (ROMULO JALLORES COMMAND)

NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY

OCTOBER 14, 2021

Mariing kinukundena ng Celso Minguez Command-BHB Sorsogon ang sapilitang pagpapasurender, pambubugbog, pananakot at iligal na interogasyon ng 31st IBPA at PMFC sa mga upisyal ng baranggay at magsasaka sa bayan ng Donsol. Desperadong ipinatutupad ng pormasyon ng AFP at PNP na nakakasakop sa bayan ang marumi at madugong gera laban sa mamamayan at rebolusyonaryong kilusan sa pamamagitang ng mga combat operation, civil military operation at intelligence operation. Perwisyo, pagka-udlot ng kabuhayan at takot ang hatid sa mamamayan ng mahigit dalawang buwang paghahasik ng teror sa mga barangay ng Devera, Banban, Mabini, Baras, Alin, San Isidro, San Vicente, Tongdol (at mga brgy sa kabilang ilog) sa saklaw ng Donsol at mga barangay ng Catamlangan, Cabiguan, Megabod, Abucay, Cagdungon, Lipason at Lumbang sa bayan ng Pilar. Mula huling linggo ng Setyembre hanggang unang linggo ng Oktubre, naitala ang iba’t ibang porma ng paglabag sa karapatang tao, panunupil at pandarahas sa mga residente ng Donsol, Sorsogon.

Habang nanghahalihaw ang Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) at combat operation, isinailalim sa ilegal na interogasyon ang mahigit 20 sibilyan sa mga nasabing baranggay sa Donsol at sa isa pang baranggay sa Pilar. Binugbog ang isa sa kanila. Habang iniinteroga, kinunan ang mga biktima ng litrato. Ihinarap din sa kanila ang mga larawan ng ilang personalidad na hindi nakatira sa kanilang mga baranggay. Matapos ang serye ng panggigipit at iligal na interogasyon, sapilitang pinasurender ang 17 sibilyan sa Devera, Mabini, Banban at sa San Isidro. Tatlo sa mga ito ang upisyal ng baranggay at 14 ang magsasaka. Sa kabila ng mahigpit na pagbabawal ng mga batas ng digma dahil ilinalagay nito sa panganib ang sibilyang populasyon, ginagamit bilang baraks ng mga militar at pulis ang mga pampublikong pasilidad tulad ng eskwelahan, barangay hall, simbahan at kabahayan. Itinulak din ng mga ito ang mga anti – sosyal at dekadenteng gawain sa komunidad tulad ng pag – iinom at pagsusugal.

Bago pa man ang kasalukuyang bugso ng pananalasa ng FMO at RCSP, nauna nang naglunsad ang pinagkumbinang Sorsogon PPO at Donsol MPS ng mga Synchronized Anti – Criminality and Law Enforcement Operation (SACLEO) noong ikalawang kwarto ng kasalukuyang taon. Abril 19 hinalughog ang bahay ng pamilyang Delosantos sa Barangay San Vicente. Mayo 1, tinamnan ng baril at inaresto si Renie Morales ng Barangay Gogon. Hunyo 17, tinamnan ng baril at granada si Jesus Macenas at binaril bago dinakip. Lahat ng biktima ay iniuugnay ng PNP at AFP sa rebolusyonaryong kilusan. Makailang beses na ring penerwisyo ang mga residente sa paulit – ulit na pagpapatawag ng mga “pulong – pulong” ng mga militar at pulis para lamang maghasik ng kasinungalingan tungkol sa “kabutihan” ng gubyerno at “kasamaan” ng rebolusyonaryong kilusan.

Nagkukumahog ang RTF-ELCAC sa ng pinakamaraming maidedeklarang “CLEAR” na baranggay upang bigyang matwid ang patuloy na pagbubuhos ng pondo para sa pasismo at terorismo ng rehimen. Tiyak na milyun – milyon ang paghahatian ng mga kurap na opisyal ng militar at pulis mula sa Barangay Development Program (BDP) na naglalaan ng P20 milyon sa bawat baranggay na maidedeklarang “CLEAR” at mahigit P65,000 sa bawat surender sa ilalim ng Enhanced Community Local Integration Program (ECLIP). Habang lumalakas ang paglalantad at pagkukundena ng taumbayan sa malawakan at sistemakong pagwawaldas at pandarambong ng kabang bayan ng mga naghaharing pangkatin at kanilang mga alipures, desperado ang juntang militar na mapanatili sa kanilang kontrol ang malaking tipak ng pondo para sa kanilang kontra-rebolusyonaryong kampanya.

Mapagpasyang bibiguin ng mga Donsolanon ang anumang pagtatangka at maruruming modus operandi ng militar, pulis at NTF – ELCAC na ipawalang saysay ang rebolusyonaryong pakikibaka ng mamamayang Sorsoganon. Totoo na ang pasismo at terorismo ng estado ay nagdudulot ng takot sa mamamayan. Ngunit ang walang kasinglubhang krisis sa kabuhayan, kalusugan at pampulitikang panunupil ang magtutulak sa mamamayan na pangibabawan ang takot at pag-alabin ang diwa ng paglaban.

Nananawagan ang CMC – BHB Sorsogon sa mamamayang Sorsoganon at lahat ng Bikolano na pahigpitin ang pagkakaisa at pagtutulungan upang ilantad at labanan ang iba’t – ibang porma ng panunupil at pandarahas na iwinawasiwas ng mga nag – uulol na utusan ng tiraniko at pasistang si Duterte. Hinihikayat ng CMC ang mga mamamayan na magsampa ng reklamo sa Hukumang Bayan laban sa mga sagadsaring elemento at yunit ng militar at pulis na pasimuno sa walang habas na pagsalaula sa karapatang pantao. Makakaasa ang mamamayang Sorsoganon na gagawin ng CMC – BHB Sorsogon ang tungkulin nito upang papanagutin ang mga salarin at kamtin ang rebolusyonaryong hustisya para sa mga biktima.

https://cpp.ph/statements/mga-magsasaka-at-barangay-official-ang-pinasusurender-at-ginigipit-ng-31st-ibpa-at-sorsogon-pmfc/

CPP/CIO: It is true that Isko Moreno is not a communist, he has the status of a high bureaucrat capitalist

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 14, 2021): It is true that Isko Moreno is not a communist, he has the status of a high bureaucrat capitalist

JOSE MARIA SISON

CHIEF POLITICAL CONSULTANT

NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES

OCTOBER 14, 2021

The claim against Isko Moreno that he is a communist is a brazen lie by the propaganda agents of some of his political rivals. It is unfair and unjust to both Isko who denies being a communist and the Communist Party of the Philippines which has a high ideological, political and organizational standard for membership.

Isko does not become a Communist by merely having a photo-op with me in the course of the GRP-NDFP peace negotiations. I had such photo-ops with other GRP officials. When Duterte has a photo op with Mocha Uson, it cannot be interpreted that they are partners in bed because in the first place Duterte is often seen as having difficulty standing erect.

Let us respect Isko’s declaration that he is not a communist because in the first place he is not qualified to be one. We should look at him as a high bureaucrat capitalist dedicated to preserving the present anti-national and anti-democratic ruling system and serving the exploitative interests of foreign monopolists, big compradors and landlords, unless he becomes enlightened and proves himself otherwise.

As of now, Isko is far beyond the integrity, calibre and dignity of the great anti-imperialist patriots and democrats like Claro Mayo Recto, Lorenzo Tañada and Jose W. Diokno who upheld their patriotic and progressive principles and who did not have to attack the Communist Party to prove that they were not communists.

Communism is not the issue now in the Philippines. It is not even socialism. The Philippines cannot become socialist because the Filipino people have not yet succeeded in achieving full national independence and democracy against foreign monopoly capitalism, domestic feudalism and bureaucrat capitalism.

The quality of the current presidential candidates can be determined by how much they expose and oppose the Duterte regime’s crimes of treason, tyranny, state terrorism, mass murder and plunder; and the rapid deterioration and worsening of the socioeconomic, political and health crisis as a result of wrong policies, bureaucratic corruption, military overspending and other anti-people transgressions.

Moreover, the presidential candidates must present what is their program of government. The broad masses of the people demand full national independence, genuine democracy, social justice, economic development through genuine land reform and national industrialization, expansion of social services, a national, scientific and mass-oriented culture and independent foreign policy.

Red-tagging progressive and patriotic organizations and individuals as communists or terrorists will not deflect the people’s attention from the grave crimes and anti-people policies of the Duterte regime. The campaign of red-tagging and worse forms of anti-communism and state terrorism is being carried out to enable the tyrant Duterte to rig the 2022 presidential elections or even postpone these as Marcos did when in 1972 he declared nationwide martial law.

At any rate, it would be beneficial to the people if there is an effective broad united front of legal patriotic and democratic forces to counter the Duterte regime’s scheme of rigging the 2022 elections or even postponing these indefinitely. If the regime commits fraud and terrorism in the elections or calls off the elections,the broad masses of the people will rise up more quickly and successfully than ever before.

The Filipino people are already fed up with the many grave crimes of the Duterte regime, the bankruptcy of the government and economy, the high rate of unemployment, mass poverty and inflation. They are eager for revolutionary change.

And they have the revolutionary forces to rely on, such as the revolutionary party of the proletariat, a people’s army, revolutionary mass organizations, alliances and the local organs of political power that constitutes the people’s democratic government.

https://cpp.ph/statements/it-is-true-that-isko-moreno-is-not-a-communist-he-has-the-status-of-a-high-bureaucrat-capitalist/

Kalinaw News: 140 Households in Licab benefit from Relief Operations

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 14, 2021): 140 Households in Licab benefit from Relief Operations



Nueva Ecija – The Local Government of Licab and 84th Infantry ‘Victorious’ Battalion joined hands in the conduct of relief operations for the residents of Sitio Carriedo, Brgy Sta Maria, Licab, Nueva Ecija who were directly affected by the Severe Tropical Storm “MARING” on October 12.

The affected residents received five kilos of rice, six canned goods, four noodles and six sachets of coffee for each household.

According to Hon Eufemia D Domingo, Municipal Mayor of Licab, “Ang pagtugon sa emergency na ito ay madalian upang hindi makaranas ng gutom ang mga naapektuhang pamilya.” She added that, “Dapat maipamahagi ang mga tulong na pagkain ng walang pagliban.”

The residents are all safe and thankful for the initiatives of LGU Licab and Army by acting immediately in extending assistance for the affected constituents.

According to First Lieutenant Ralph Andy Ranario, Company Commander of Alpha Company, 84IB, “Ang inyong kasundaluhan ay palaging nakahandang tumulong at maglingkod para sa ating mga kababayan katuwang ang mga lokal na pamahalaan lalo na sa mga panahong may krisis dulot ng masamang panahong nararanasan.”

Meanwhile, Lieutenant Colonel Enrico Gil C Ileto, Commanding Officer of 84th Infantry ‘Victorious’ Battalion lauded the troops in teaming up with the LGU in acting immediately by extending support to the affected residents. He also ensured the continued collaboration and partnership of the 84IB and LGUs in delivering basic services to the Novo Ecijanos.

[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/140-households-in-licab-benefit-from-relief-operations/

Kalinaw News: Former Rebels reap 600 kilos Adlai from Arm-to-Farm Program in Bukidnon

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 14, 2021): Former Rebels reap 600 kilos Adlai from Arm-to-Farm Program in Bukidnon



IMPASUGONG, BUKIDNON – Former Rebels (FRs) have reaped 600 kilos of Adlai rice under the Arm-to-Farm Program of the 8th Infantry “Dependable” Battalion (8IB) at Poblacion, Impasugong, Bukidnon last October 13, 2021.

In a 3-hectare land owned by the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Impasugong, 25 FRs have invested their time from planting the seedlings last May to taking care of the crops for six (6) months. Their untiring effort has paid off after harvesting ten (10) sacks or 600kg of Adlai rice.

Beverly M Serrano @Drian, a former Political Guide, Sqd 1, Pltn 1, Guerilla Front Malayag, Sub-Regional Committee 2, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee, expressed, “Kini nga programa dako kaayo ug katabang kanamo tungod kay nakakat-on kami unsaon ang mga proseso sa pagpananom sa adlai ug nakahatag kini og dugang income kanamo para sa inadlaw-adlaw nga panginahanglanon.” (The program greatly helped us because we were trained how to plant adlai and this also gave us additional income for our daily needs.)

Lieutenant Colonel Edgardo Talaroc Jr, Commander 8IB, stated, “Kami nga mga sundalo nalipay tungod nakatabang ang programa sa Arm-to-Farm aron adunay mamahimong income ang mga kanhing rebelde samtang sila naghulat nga madawat nila ang tabang nga gikan sa Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP). Ubay-ubay na ang natabangan sa atong programa ug daghang uban pa ang sigurado matabangan niini.” (We soldiers are glad that we are able to help the former rebels through the Arm-to-Farm program as they await for their benefits under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP). We have already helped a considerable number of FRs under this program and more will continue to benefit from this.)

The Arm-to-Farm program aims to provide agriculture-based livelihood opportunities for former rebels while they temporarily live inside the military camp. Since its implementation, FRs were able to harvest root crop (kamote), Adlai and corn with PhP 200,000 amount in sales.

[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/former-rebels-reap-600-kilos-adlai-from-arm-to-farm-program-in-bukidnon/

Kalinaw News: Mangyan Reported NPA’s Presence, Firefight Ensued

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 14, 2021): Mangyan Reported NPA’s Presence, Firefight Ensued



CAMP CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal – The NPAs in Mindoro experienced another upset when an indigenous people member of the community reported their presence that resulted in a clash with government forces early morning yesterday.

According to sources, combined military and police forces were able to catch up with nine NPA rebels at 8:30 a.m. yesterday October 13, 2021, believed to be members of Komite Larangang Gerilya ICM of Sub-Regional Military Area-4D of the Southern Tagalog Regional Party Committee in Sitio Kipot Ilog of Barangay Manguyang in the municipality of Gloria, province of Oriental Mindoro due to information divulged by an IP member to the Barangay Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict. After receiving information about the rebel’s presence, the government security forces deliberately planned and launched an operation to pursue the rebels.

It was also reported that the IPs of Barangay Manguyang were rounded up by the communist rebels sometime in August of this year, in the hopes of regaining their lost supporters from the said barangay. Accordingly, the communists demanded that there must be three IPs for every Sitio to join their ranks and must attend the next rebel’s call for a meeting. However, the leadership of the BTF-ELCAC also chaired by Honorable Remson C Jamilla the chairman of the said barangay having concern for his constituents and aware of his mandate, reported the same to the government forces in the area.

The scampering communist rebels left various war materials during the firefight that included Five Magazines for 5.56mm rifle; One IED; One Rifle Grenade; One Blasting Cap; personal belongings and subversive documents. Also found on the place of the encounter were bloodstains indicative of possible fatality on the side of the rebels, which is yet to be confirmed as of this report.

Honorable German Rodegerio the municipal mayor of the said town in support to the efforts of the BTF-ELCAC of Barangay Manguyang expressed condemnation for the NPA rebel’s activities of recruiting IPs to their ranks and was caught saying, “The Local Government Unit of Gloria is one with the people in condemning the atrocious and terroristic acts being committed by the NPAs against our peace-loving people. We are condemning in the highest possible term this act as it is grossly inimical and prejudicial to the best effort of our national and local government. We urge our people to once again actively support and participate in our Whole of Nation Approach efforts towards ending the grand design of deception by the CPP/NPA/NDF.”

The actions of the local chief executive of Barangay Manguyang and the municipality of Gloria were truly commendable and bespeaks of their commitment to their constituents which is worthy of emulation. With the current direction, the communist influence in the Municipality of Gloria may soon be eradicated.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/mangyan-reported-npas-presence-firefight-ensued/

Kalinaw News: Australian Ambassador to the Philippines visits ‘Kaugnay’ Division

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 14, 2021): Australian Ambassador to the Philippines visits ‘Kaugnay’ Division



Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija — The Australian Ambassador to the Philippines, His Excellency, Mr. Steven J. Robinson AO visited the home of ‘Kaugnay’ Troopers as part of its bilateral engagements with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine Army at 7th Infantry Division Headquarters, Fort Magsaysay, Palayan City, Nueva Ecija on October 13, 2021.

His visit aims to oversee the ongoing Modified Land Mobile Training composed of Urban Operations and Combat Shooting, Tactical Site Exploitation and Counter Improvised Explosive Device (C-IED) Training conducted by the Australian Defence Force (ADF) to the troops of 1st Brigade Combat Team (1BCT), PA and Special Forces Regiment (SFRA).

The military training exercise started last September 27 and will conclude on November 19, 2021.

Said exercise aims to develop the skills and tactics of the participants to dispose IEDs and the application of different search and breach techniques combined with Explosive Hazard Awareness and Protection Training.

Among the engagements of the Australian Defence Force with the Philippine Army in the past is the Philippines – Australia Exercise Dawn Caracha last 2017 and 2019 that was also held at Fort Ramon Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija.

It focused on enhancing the capability of the troops on crisis situation response in a hostage rescue operation as a combined force with foreign allied forces in mission planning, training, rehearsals, and execution of mission in a jungle environment.
The Acting Commander of the 7th Infantry (KAUGNAY) Division, Philippine Army Brigadier General Luis Rex D Bergante PA welcomed the Ambassador during his Arrival Honor at Kaugnay Hall Grounds, 7ID Headquarters.

[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/australian-ambassador-to-the-philippines-visits-kaugnay-division/

Kalinaw News: Serbisyo Caravan: Bringing Government Services at the Doorsteps of an Isolated Community in San Julian, Eastern Samar

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 14, 2021): Serbisyo Caravan: Bringing Government Services at the Doorsteps of an Isolated Community in San Julian, Eastern Samar



BORONGAN CITY, EASTERN SAMAR – A total of seventy-seven (77) families from the far-flung sitios of Pala-uno and Karuyagon, under Barangay Putong, San Julian, Eastern Samar have benefited from the Serbisyo Caravan on 12 October 2021.

The hinterland sitios are located at the tri-boundaries of San Julian, Borongan City, and Hinabangan. The roads are unpaved and inaccessible for any type of vehicles.

The absence of government services in the areas mentioned in the past years had made such communities a fertile ground for the Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) to plant seeds of subversion and rebellion. This was proven during an encounter between the government forces and the CNT last July of 2021 wherein a CTG casualty was identified as a resident in the said locality.

To break the influence of CTGs in the area, and more importantly to provide much needed social services to the communities, the 78th Infantry Battalion and Local Government Unit of San Julian joined hands in bringing various programs and services right at the very doorstep of the community to make them feel that the government is present and working to uplift their lives.

Hon. Dennis P. Estaron, the Mayor of the Municipality of San Julian is very much thankful for the collaborative efforts of all the members of the Municipal Task Force in Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC). Mayor Estaron states, “We, in partnership with other government agencies are doing our best to address the existing socio-economic problems in the municipality.”

The 78TH Infantry (Warrior) Battalion, under the leadership of Lieutenant Colonel Oliver C Alvior, clearly displayed during this activity that it is a reliable and committed partner to different MTF-ELCAC partner agencies. The 78th Infantry (Warrior) Battalion will continuously be a productive partner with ELCAC agencies by actively participating in winning the peace and finding solutions on the issues used by the CTGs in manipulating and exploiting the masses.

As stated by Lieutenant Colonel Alvior, “This is a manifestation that we are serious in our efforts to achieve the goal for permanent and peaceful closure of all armed conflicts with non-state groups. We will give you the full assurance that your Army, in partnership with other stakeholders in Eastern Samar, will support you and we will be your partners for peace and progress.”

Various services were provided by the different departments of both the municipal and provincial local governments concerned. The efforts of the caravan literally brought the government closer to the people whom it is mandated to serve.

The wholehearted response of the local populace during the activity had provided a glimpse to the reality that the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) is losing the moral high ground, because of the issues being exploited by them are no longer relevant. Furthermore and more importantly, their unfulfilled promises of a better life are continuously being shown as the lies they truly are.

[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/serbisyo-caravan-bringing-government-services-at-the-doorsteps-of-an-isolated-community-in-san-julian-eastern-samar/

Kalinaw News: Police general visits WestMinCom

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 14, 2021): Police general visits WestMinCom



Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – October 13, 2021

The Peace Process and Development Center Chief of the PNP visited the Western Mindanao Command in this city, October 13, 2021.

Police Brigadier General Medardo Ritchie Posadas was welcomed by Major General Alfredo Rosario, Jr. during his arrival at the WestMinCom headquarters in Camp Navarro, Calarian. In adherence to COVID-19 protocols, Foyer Honors, instead of full military honors, was tendered by the troops of the WestMinCom to the distinguished visitor.

The police general and other members of the Joint Peace and Security Committee are currently working on the normalization mechanisms in the western Mindanao area by activating and deploying the JPST stations in accordance with the Normalization Annex of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB).

“We continue to synchronize our efforts with the police and other security agencies, and participate in the peace process towards realization of lasting-peace in the Mindanao region,” said Major General Rosario, Jr.

Police Brigadier General Posadas is a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Bigkis Lahi” Class of 1990.

[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/police-general-visits-westmincom/

Kalinaw News: Joint Peace and Security Team activated in Zamboanga Sibugay

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 14, 2021): Joint Peace and Security Team activated in Zamboanga Sibugay



Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – October 14, 2021

A Joint Peace and Security Team (JPST) was activated and deployed in the municipality of Tungawan, Zamboanga Sibugay Province on October 12, 2021. The team is composed of 30 members, of whom seven are Army troops, eight are police personnel, and 15 are members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

The ceremony was held at the Covered Court within the Barangay Hall Compound, Barangay Datu Tumanggong, Tungawan. It was graced by the presence of Minister Von Al Haq, Deputy Minister of Ministry of Transportation and Communications of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao; Police Brigadier General Eden Ugale, Regional Director of Police Regional Office-BAR; Minister Eduard Uy Guerra of the Ministry of Public Works, BARMM; Commander Suaib Edris of the 113BC, WMF; APC Western Mindanao Acting Executive Officer, Police Colonel Lyndon Mencio who represented his Commander, Police Lieutenant General Jose Chiquito Malayo; Colonel Antonio John Divinagracia, Deputy Brigade Commander of the 102nd Infantry Brigade; Police Brigadier General Ritchie Medardo Posadas, Chief, Peace Process and Development Center; Brigadier General Antonio Nafarrete, WestMinCom’s Deputy Commander for Administration and Chairman of GPH-CCCH; Colonel Marvin Licudine, Chief, AFPPDO; Mr. Ariel Hernandez, Special Assistant of OPPARU; Congressman Wilter Palma II, Representative of the 1st District of Zamboanga Sibugay Province; and Mayor Carlnan Climaco of Tungawan.

In his message, Colonel Divinagracia stressed that the activation and deployment of the JPST is a result of the continuing multi-stakeholder peace-building efforts. “This is a great stride towards the attainment of our coveted peace not only in the Bangsamoro but the entire Mindanao region,” Colonel Divinagracia further stated.

“This is also the time that the government is in dire need of cooperation, coordination, and collaboration of communities for the achievement of this goal. Rest assured that the men and women of the 102nd Infantry Brigade will always be your partner towards peace and progress in the region,” the Deputy Brigade Commander added.

Highlight of the activity was the donning of blue berets and brassards to the members of the JPST-Tungawan.

Alongside the road map toward the establishment of the Bangsamoro government, a normalization process is being implemented by both the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). Under the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) signed between the government and MILF in 2014, JPSTs have been tasked to support the maintenance of peace and order and stability in areas that will undergo the decommissioning process. The decommissioning process is under the normalization track of the CAB, which aims to help MILF combatants make the transition to peaceful civilian life, while their communities will be transformed into peaceful, progressive, and resilient communities.

[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/joint-peace-and-security-team-activated-in-zamboanga-sibugay/

Kalinaw News: 7ID intensifies conduct of Disaster Response Operations in its Area of Responsibility due to Tropical Storm ‘Maring’

Posted to Kalinaw News (Oct 14, 2021): 7ID intensifies conduct of Disaster Response Operations in its Area of Responsibility due to Tropical Storm ‘Maring’



Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija — The Acting Commander of the 7th Infantry (KAUGNAY) Division, Philippine Army Brigadier General Luis Rex D Bergante PA has instructed the troops in all units under the 7ID to intensify the conduct of its Humanitarian Activities and Disaster Response operations on October 13, 2021, following the Tropical Storm ‘Maring’ that hit some parts of its Area of Responsibility.

An immediate rescue operation was conducted by the troops in the Municipalities of Ilocos Sur, Abra and other provinces greatly affected by TS ‘Maring’.

Forty residents trapped in flood were rescued in the five Barangays of Nanguneg East, Nanguneg Poblacion, Cagayungan, Poblacion Narvacan, San Pedro in Ilocos Sur, together with the LGU and Philippine Coast Guard.

Meanwhile, an immediate ocular inspection and road clearing operations were also conducted by the troops in some Barangays of the Municipality of Villaviciosa, Abra.

The road clearing operations were conducted together with Villaviciosa Vice Mayor Marjorie L. Lagen with the MDRRMO team.

Also in Ilocos Sur, two families were also immediately rescued from a neck-deep floodwater by the troops at Sitio Pantar, Villahermosa, Sta. Cruz.

While an LGU-led relief distribution was also assisted by the troops intended for the victims of typhoon in Licab, Nueva Ecija wherein each household received five kilos of rice, six canned goods, four noodles, and six sachets of coffee.

“We are intensifying our Humanitarian Activities and Disaster Response operations in collaboration with the Local Government Units in our Area of Responsibility to help our kababayan affected by Tropical Storm ‘Maring’. We capacitate and train our troops for this kind of disaster upang mas marami pa tayong mai-abot natulong sa mga nangangailangan lalong lalo na sa panahon ng kalamidad,” said Brigadier General Bergante.

[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/7id-intensifies-conduct-of-disaster-response-operations-in-its-area-of-responsibility-due-to-tropical-storm-maring/