Saturday, December 10, 2022

AFP holds nationwide ROTC summit

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 4, 2022): AFP holds nationwide ROTC summit (By Priam Nepomuceno)



ROTC SUMMIT. Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Lt. Gen. Bartolome Vicente Bacarro speaks before the participants of the 2022 ROTC summit at Tejeros Hall, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Dec. 3, 2022. This year's theme is "ROTC Cadets of Today, Leaders of Tomorrow". (Contributed photo)

MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Saturday conducted a nationwide face-to-face and online summit for officers and cadets of the Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) program.

The event was held at Tejeros Hall at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City with AFP chief-of-staff Lt. Gen. Bartolome Vicente Bacarro as guest of honor and speaker.

"As the CSAFP (Chief-of-Staff, AFP), I wholeheartedly give my unwavering support to the President's endeavor of pursuing mandatory military training programs," he added.

This year's theme is "ROTC Cadets of Today, Leaders of Tomorrow" and aims to advocate the promotion of the ROTC and highlight the enhancement of the reserve force of the AFP.


"This program is not merely for the marches and the physical challenge, but more so it encourages coming forward as youth leaders who are contributors to our envisioned best for our country," Bacarro said.

On Nov. 26, as part of the first phase of the summit, a historical tour and town hall was held at the Bantayog ng mga Bayani in San Juan, Cainta, Rizal aimed at educating participants on the history of the ROTC and the contribution of ROTC cadets during World War II.

It also helped inculcate the importance of history, rekindle patriotism and nationalism and instill love of country to the participants. The participants were also given updates on the Revised IRR to Republic Act 9163 or the National Service Training Program Act of 2001, ROTC policies and the National Citizens Service Training Bill.

They also witnessed the launch of "Oplan Rehistro" a program that seeks to account for ROTC graduates in the country.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190032

Normalization schemes to make PH peace process 'world model'

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 5, 2022): Normalization schemes to make PH peace process 'world model' (By Priam Nepomuceno)


Photo courtesy of OPAPRU

MANILA – Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) chief, said the various normalization mechanisms of the Bangsamoro peace process will make the Philippines a model for other countries to follow.

“We (Philippines) will become the model of the world in terms of our peace process,” Galvez said in his message during the Joint Normalization Committee (JNC) meeting and assessment workshop held on Dec. 2 and was posted on the OPAPRU Facebook page on Sunday.

He said these mechanisms are helping the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in fulfilling commitments made by the national government under all signed Bangsamoro peace agreements.

Galvez also said the successful implementation of these normalization mechanisms allowed the President to make the Bangsamoro peace process as the "centerpiece" of his administration’s bid to become a member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) by 2027.


Galvez noted that these mechanisms, which are under the oversight of the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Peace Implementing Panels, "aim to transform former Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) combatants and their families into peaceful and productive individuals, and their areas into progressive and resilient communities.

These peace mechanisms, which were created under the normalization track of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), include the JNC, Joint Peace and Security Committee (JPSC), Independent Decommissioning Body (IDB), Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH), Adhoc Joint Action Group (AHJAG), Task Force for Decommissioned Combatants and their Families (TFDCC), and Joint Task Force on Camps Transformation (JTFCT).

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190067

NTF-ELCAC hails health experts for aid to ex-rebels

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 5, 2022): NTF-ELCAC hails health experts for aid to ex-rebels (By Priam Nepomuceno)



MANILA – The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) on Monday thanked health experts who willingly offered their services and expertise to help "friends rescued", or those previously identified as "former rebels" (FR), get over their mental health issues.

"On behalf of NTF-ELCAC, let me extend my heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Moibe Olitres for catering to the needs of our 'friends rescued'. Dahil sa kanya at sa ating health experts na taos-pusong tumutulong, nabigyang pansin ang pangangailangan ng ating mga FRs, particularly na nga itong mental health (Due to her help and other health experts who have whole-heartedly gave their assistance, the needs of our FRs, especially those concerning mental health, are provided for)," said NTF-ELCAC Secretariat Executive Director Emmanuel Salamat in a statement.


Salamat said the help of Olitress and other health experts made them realize how indispensable the active participation and solidarity of medical practitioners from both the private and government sector.

"This is the essence of a whole-of-nation approach in addressing the communist armed conflict.”

One of the highlights of the upcoming NTF-ELCAC's fourth anniversary celebration on Dec. 9, is the launching of the book, "Beyond the Surface: Story of Resilience and Redemption,” authored by Olitres.

In her book, Olitres delved deep into the psychology of those who took an active part in the armed rebellion, in order to provide readers with a profound understanding of the FRs and those who are still under the influence of the communist terrorist group.

Salamat is also grateful to Olitres for mainstreaming the mental health issues of those who were deceived to bear arms against the government.

"It is very important to discuss these issues with experts on the field so that everyone will have a better grasp of what is really going on. This is how we realize one of the President's agenda - the protection of (the) cognitive domain. This is how we discern truth from lies," the NTF-ELCAC official said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190069

AFP reaffirms commitment to protect, promote human rights

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 6, 2022): AFP reaffirms commitment to protect, promote human rights (By Priam Nepomuceno)


Photo courtesy of AFP

MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reiterated its commitment to the protection and promotion of human rights as it joined the observance of the National Human Rights Consciousness Week.

AFP public affairs office chief Col. Jorry Baclor, in a statement Tuesday, said this pledge was renewed during Monday's flag-raising ceremonies at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

"The Vice Chief-of-Staff, AFP Maj. Gen. Arthur Cordura who represented the AFP chief of staff, Lt. Gen. Bartolome Vicente Bacarro, presided over the ceremony, which was attended by officers, enlisted personnel and civilian human resources of the AFP," he added.

In his message, the AFP chief called on all military personnel to continue with their commitment to protect and promote the human rights of Filipino citizens.


"As soldiers in the noble profession of arms, part of our pledge in defending the lives and freedom of the Filipino people and our beloved nation is to strengthen our steadfast commitment to respecting and promoting the rights of our fellow citizens," he added.

Meanwhile, AFP Center for Law of Armed Conflict (AFPCLOAC) director Brig. Gen. Joel Alejandro Nacnac led the attendees in reciting the pledge of commitment, which reminds the AFP members of their essential role in safeguarding the rights of the people whom they swore to protect.

The AFPCLOAC will also facilitate various activities to educate further and raise the awareness of military personnel about human rights.

This year's observance, which runs from Dec. 4 to 10, carries the theme "Pagtaguyod at Pagsulong ng mga Karapatang Pantao tungo sa Matatag na Pundasyon ng Kapayapaan, Katarungan, Kalikasan, Kaunlaran, at Bayanihan."

The celebration of the National Human Rights Consciousness Week is pursuant to Republic Act 9201 signed into law by former President Gloria Macapagal- Arroyo in April 2003.

Public and private institutions are urged to participate by propagating a culture of respect for human rights to help in peacebuilding and national unity.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190153

PH, Japan Air Force troops begin unit-to-unit activities

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 6, 2022): PH, Japan Air Force troops begin unit-to-unit activities (By Priam Nepomuceno)



BOOSTING EXCHANGES. Officials of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) pay a courtesy call on commanders of major Philippine Air Force units at the Clark Air Base in Mabalacat City, Pampanga on Monday (Dec. 5, 2022). The JASDF officials along with their PAF counterparts visited the unit-to-unit exchange activities that are currently ongoing. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Air Force)

MANILA – The Philippine Air Force (PAF) is now conducting unit-to-unit activities with Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) in Clark Air Base, Pampanga which aims to enhance the bilateral ties between the two services.

Air Force spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo, in a statement Tuesday, said this interaction with the JASDF is part of their so-called "Fighters' Goodwill Visit to the Philippines” which took place on Monday.

"Maj. Gen. Matsuzaki Yuki, Commander of Southwestern Air Control and Warning Wing, JASDF, and Maj. Gen. Takahashi Hideo, Vice Commander of Western Air Defense Force, JASDF rendered a joint courtesy call on the commanders of major units based in Clark Air Base namely : Brig. Gen. Teofilo R. Bailon Jr. PAF, Commander, Air Logistics Command; Maj. Gen. Ramon Guiang PAF, Commander, Air Force Reserve Command; and Brig. Gen. Rocky J. Binag, PAF, Wing Commander, Tactical Operations Wing Northern Luzon. This happened at Clark Air Base, Mabalacat City, Pampanga," she added.


After their visit, Castillo said the two JASDF officials along with their PAF counterparts visited the unit-to-unit exchange activities that are currently ongoing.

"This includes subject matter exchange exercises on the following: aircraft maintenance, medical affairs, base defense (security), and field meteorology. They also visited the PAF’s welfare facilities," she said.

She added the one-week exchange program is a capacity-building activity that aims to strengthen the PAF's bilateral ties with JASDF by further exploring mutually beneficial areas of cooperation.

"It will serve as an avenue for fruitful engagements between our Air Forces which include high-level meetings and subject matter experts exchanges on best practices and tactics, techniques and practices related to various fields such as but not limited to fighter operations and aircraft maintenance," Castillo said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190155

House panel OKs consolidated bill on ROTC, NCST

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 6, 2022): House panel OKs consolidated bill on ROTC, NCST (By Filane Mikee Cervantes)


File photo

MANILA – Two House of Representatives' panels on Tuesday approved the consolidation of several measures that would establish a mandatory National Citizens Service Training (NCST) program and an optional Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) program.

During a joint hearing, the House Committee on Higher and Technical Education, chaired by Baguio City Representative Mark Go and the Committee on Basic Education and Culture, chaired by Pasig City Rep. Roman Romulo, approved the substitute bill consolidating 27 measures on the ROTC and NCST programs with House Bill 6486 principally authored by House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez as the lead bill.

HB 6486 seeks to institute a national citizens service training program in all public and private tertiary education institutions by repealing Republic Act 9163, or the “National Service Training Act”.

The NCST program shall equip and organize the youth with necessary, essential, practical and pragmatic knowledge and skills for civic duty, emergency and disaster response and preparedness in the current frameworks of law enforcement, peace and order, territorial defense and national disaster risk reduction and management for mobilization for military and civil services that produces reservists for the National Service Reserve Corps (NSRC) and AFP Citizen Armed Force (AFP Reserve Force).

The lead bill also proposes an optional ROTC program for higher education students designed to produce officers for the Citizen Armed Force and Regular Force of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.


In his sponsorship speech, co-author TINGOG Party-list Rep. Jude Acidre said the establishment of a unified, comprehensive and holistic national citizens service training and mobilization system would enhance the capacity of Filipinos to mobilize and perform their constitutional duty to render personal military or civil service to the State in times of calamities and disasters, national or local emergencies, rebellion, war or invasion.

Acidre further said in the implementation of the national citizens service training and mobilization system, strict monitoring, evaluation and accountability would be observed to prevent all forms of abuses, corruption, hazing, torture, data privacy rights violation and all forms of violation of human rights.

“Any incident or report of abuses, corruption, hazing, torture, data privacy rights violation or any form of violation of human rights would be immediately investigated, addressed, as well as the maximum penalty imposed on any proven perpetrator or violator,” he said.

He said the proposal is a structured, coherent and comprehensive legislative measure for the training and mobilization of the youth for their holistic development.

"This bill also gives life to the constitutional mandate of raising the youth as partners in nation-building, encouraging their early involvement in public and civic affairs, and developing a citizenry that is ready to defend the State in personal military and civil service," he said.

Atty. Spocky Farolan, director of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) legal and legislative service, informed members of both committees that the CHED, Department of National Defense (DND), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), in consultation with the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Department of Education (DepEd) and some other relevant agencies like the National Youth Commission (NYC), have come up with a consensus bill which is embodied in the bill filed by Speaker Romualdez.

“This is already a product of the discussion and deliberations made by the different agencies which is supposed to implement this new program that we want to introduce to strengthen the citizen service program in the Philippines,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190223

Army reservists hailed for nation building, disaster response

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 7, 2022): Army reservists hailed for nation building, disaster response (By Priam Nepomuceno)



RESERVIST. Deputy House Speaker and Colonel Isidro Ungab (Res.), who earlier received the Bronze Cross Medal, receives a memento from Army Commanding General, Lt. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr., during the first-ever Philippine Army Fellowship Night With Reservists held at the Philippine Army Officers’ Clubhouse in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City on Dec. 5, 2022. (Photo courtesy of PA)

MANILA – The Philippine Army (PA) has hailed its reservists for their role and dedication in nation building and disaster response efforts.

“They risk their lives to save the lives of others,” said Army chief, Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., in a statement forwarded Tuesday night as the Army honored the services of these individuals in a fellowship night last Dec. 5.

PA spokesperson, Col. Xerxes Trinidad, said Brawner's fellow night with the reservists took place at the Army Officers’ Clubhouse in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

"The fellowship night's highlight was the recognition of Army reservists' service to the country and dedication to duty as well as the commissioning and incorporation of new reserve officers and enlisted personnel," he added.


Among the highlights of the event were Brawner's awarding of Deputy House Speaker and Colonel Isidro Ungab (Reserve) with the Bronze Cross Award, while Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, House Deputy Speaker and Cebu Representative Vincent Franco Frasco, and Lanao del Sur Rep. Ziaur-Rahman Alonto Adiong were commissioned into the Army’s reserve force.

Singer-actress Jessa Zaragoza-Avanzado and actor-singer Brent Valdez were likewise enlisted as privates in the PA reserve force during the activity.

"The well-attended activity gathered reservists from all walks of life, most notably from the government, entertainment industry, private sector, and various professions. Senator and Brig. Gen. Francis Tolentino (Res.), who serves as the Commander of the 1501st Ready Reserve Brigade, and Senator and Lt. Col. Sherwin Gatchalian (Res.) also graced the event," Trinidad said.

Four enlisted celebrity reservists -- Francis Cyril "Dingdong" Avanzado, Julieane "Aya" Fernandez, Jean Christopher Santos, and Ivan Carapiet -- also received rank readjustments during the activity.

PH Army civilian employees kick off National Government Employee's Week

As this developed, PA "civilian human resources" or civilian employees kicked off the celebration for the National Government Employee’s Week with an early morning zumba exercise held at the grandstand of the Philippine Army headquarters last Dec. 6.

PA civilian human resource chief Letty Edith Lacanienta led the activity and laid out the activities for the week-long celebration.

During the activity, Lacanienta encouraged the attendees to participate in the upcoming activities in appreciation of the government employees employed by the PA.

The activities include the conduct of the Search for Ginang Kawani Philippine Army 2022 and Fellowship Dinner with Brawner.

"The civilian human resources of the PA perform an important part in the organization as they actively participate in the Command’s institutional transformation by providing administrative and personnel support to the uniformed personnel," Trinidad said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190250

2 Japanese jet fighters in PH for goodwill visit

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 7, 2022): 2 Japanese jet fighters in PH for goodwill visit (By Priam Nepomuceno)


Photo courtesy of PAF-JASDF

MANILA – Two Japanese Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) McDonnell Douglas F-15 "Eagle" jet fighters landed at Clark Air Base, Pampanga last Dec. 6 as part of the goodwill visit aimed at strengthening the long-standing ties and capabilities of two services.

In a statement Wednesday, Philippine Air Force (PAF) spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo said the Japanese jet fighters were escorted by their FA-50PHs upon their arrival in the country.

"(This is) part of the goodwill visit of JASDF to the Philippines which aims to strengthen the long-standing relationship between the two Air Forces as they jointly develop their defense capabilities through unit-to-unit exchanges," she added.


A F-15 jet fighter is twin-engine, all-weather tactical fighter designed initially to meet the United States Air Force's requirement for a dedicated air superiority fighter.

It has a maximum speed of Mach 2.5 and a combat range of 1,061 nautical miles and is armed with a 20mm cannon and capable of carrying a variety of air-to-air missiles.

Exchanges will be held mainly at the Clark Air Base, Pampanga and the surrounding airspace.

Previously, the JASDF and PAF also conducted bilateral exercises on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) in July 2021 and June 2022.

These exercises aimed to enhance the JASDF and PAF HADR capabilities, particularly in the delivery of relief goods to affected people in severe emergencies.

The arrival of the two F-15Js were followed by a simple program that kicked-off the goodwill interaction between PAF and JASDF participants with Maj. Gen. Takahashi Hideo, JASDF Western Air Defense Force vice commander, as guest of honor.

Castillo said the activity was hosted by 5th Fighter Wing commander Col. Leo Fontanilla and attended by PAF pilots, officers and enlisted personnel, who later had the opportunity to interact with their JASDF counterparts.

"Meanwhile, in Taguig City, Gen Izutsu Shunji, JASDF chief-of-staff, visited the Libingan ng mga Bayani for a wreath-laying ceremony in honor of fallen Filipino soldiers. He was welcomed by the Air Force Inspector General, Maj. Gen. Araus Robert F. Musico, PAF and was led to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier where he paid tribute and offered his prayers as the wreath was laid," she added.

The activities are in line with the bilateral agreement between PAF and JASDF to deepen defense cooperation and strengthen the bond of friendship between the two countries.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190251

Zambo Sur gov't vows to sustain NTF-ELCAC projects

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 7, 2022): Zambo Sur gov't vows to sustain NTF-ELCAC projects (By Priam Nepomuceno)


Photo from NTF-ELCAC

MANILA – The Zamboanga Del Sur provincial government on Wednesday said it is committed to sustain development programs of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) particularly its "Project Good Life".

“As the governor, of course, it is my job to assess the project when it was first presented to me. But seeing how concrete and sound their plan is, and also considering the urgency of the need to address insurgency, I immediately gave my full confidence and support to ‘Project Good Life,’” Governor Victor Yu said following a courtesy call of NTF-ELCAC director for stakeholders engagement Stephen Cabanlet last Dec. 6.

In a statement, the NTF-ELCAC said "Project Good Life" is an initiative of Zamboanga Del Sur’s Provincial Task Force-ELCAC (PTF-ELCAC). It facilitates the reintegration of "Friends Rescued" (FRs) or former rebels into the society.

The project molds former rebels into productive citizens who are active members of the community.


Attaining inclusive and sustainable peace and development across the country is among the priority goals of the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. It is also the mandate of the national task force.

The end goal of the project is to establish the community’s total acceptance of FRs, absence any form of discrimination and the monitoring of their recovery and utilization of opportunities to lead a peaceful and secure life.

“What’s great about Project Good Life is how it addresses aspects of ‘pagbabalik-loob’ -- reintegration of FRs to the society as productive citizens and their healing from the wounds they suffered physically, emotionally, and spiritually,” Cabanlet said.

The project provides a transient facility, a fully functional halfway house for the FRs, where they can stay until fully prepared to live in the communities.

While in the halfway house, they are given access to training provided by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to equip them with useful skills, in preparation for employment.

TESDA trainer Artemio Tunacao said once training of these FRs are completed, they are eligible to receive the National Certificate 2, which certifies their skill levels and is widely recognized by companies.

This document also allows them to find jobs easier. The FRs are also receiving psychological therapy which helps in their healing.

One of the proponents of "Project Good Life", Dr. Moibe Olitres Ph.D., conducts psychological assessments necessary to completely prepare the FRs to socialize with others. Zamboanga del Sur’s Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office and the Office of the Governor facilitate the processing of the FRs’ application for Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) for them to avail the benefits of the service while in the halfway house.

Social workers also constantly volunteer to help "Project Good Life".

While the provinces of the Zamboanga Peninsula have been declared insurgency-free, Yu said there will be no letup in Zamboanga del Sur’s efforts to maintain peace and development in the area.

“This is not a reason for us to relax, insurgency is just around the corner. We are doing this to provide a better future for Zamboanga del Sur,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190269

Free legal aid for uniformed personnel bill hurdles 2nd reading

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 7, 2022): Free legal aid for uniformed personnel bill hurdles 2nd reading (By Jose Cielito)



MANILA – The House of Representatives on Wednesday approved on second reading the proposed Free Legal Assistance for Military and Uniformed Personnel Act.

House Bill 6509 seeks to provide free legal assistance to officers and uniformed personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in all stages of criminal, civil, or administrative proceedings arising from service-related incidents.

Under the measure, the free legal assistance shall include legal representation in all stages of civil, criminal or administrative proceedings involving service-related incidents; legal advice or consultations in relation to service-related cases or incidents; preparation of pleadings, motions, memoranda, and all other legal forms and documents in relation to service-related cases; and notarization of documents in relation to service-related cases, among others.


As defined under HB 6509, service-related cases refer to civil, criminal, and administrative cases filed against military and uniformed personnel (MUP) involving service-related incidents; while service-related incident refers to any act or omission committed by MUP in good faith that is the consequence of the discharge of their official functions or the performance of their duties, or that is relevant to their office or to the discharge of their official functions.

Officers or uniformed personnel of the AFP, BFP, BJMP, PCG, or PNP who have been granted free legal assistance shall continue to enjoy such legal assistance even after their retirement from service.

Retired officers or uniformed personnel of the AFP, BFP, BJMP, PCG, or PNP shall also be given free legal assistance for cases or charges involving service-related incidents committed by such retired officers or uniformed personnel while still in active duty.

HB 6509 likewise seeks to mandate the strengthening of the legal offices of the AFP, PNP, BJMP, BFP and PCG to render adequate and effective free legal assistance to qualified personnel.

It also entitles government lawyers representing qualified personnel to payment for actual expenses and honoraria per appearance, as may be authorized; and allows officers or uniformed personnel of the AFP, PNP, BJMP, BFP or PCG to be provided with private counsel, when necessary, at the expense of the government.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190323

USAID study proposes solutions to address PH cyber security risks

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 7, 2022): USAID study proposes solutions to address PH cyber security risks (By Raymond Carl Dela Cruz)



CYBERSECURITY. Executives and top officials from the Philippine government, USAID and IBM present the National Cybersecurity Talent Workforce Assessment Report of the Philippines at its launch in Conrad Hotel, Pasay City on Wednesday (Dec. 7, 2022). A study funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) proposed several solutions meant to address gaps in the country's current cybersecurity, particularly the lack of workforce in its cybersecurity ecosystem. (PNA photo by Raymond Carl Dela Cruz)

MANILA – A study funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) on Wednesday proposed several solutions meant to address gaps in the country's current cybersecurity, particularly the lack of workforce in its cybersecurity ecosystem.

In a launch event at the Conrad Hotel in Pasay City, USAID's Better Access and Connectivity (BEACON) Activity presented its "National Cybersecurity Talent Workforce Assessment of the Philippines" commissioned by IBM Consulting Services and written by Caryn LeMur and Jeff Krinock.

BEACON Chief of Party John Garrity said the study found a lack of credentialed or certified and experienced cybersecurity workforce in the country, particularly in the public sector, among women, and entry to mid-level job positions in the private sector.

"There is this cybersecurity skills shortage so this is an issue for organizations, government, enterprise, and even for individuals, especially young persons who can learn about the opportunity to participate in this sector where there is excess demand for trained professionals," Garrity said.


To address such issues, the study proposed several solutions that are divided into two tracks.

The first set of recommendations, he said, are incremental solutions that are "natural evolutions" of existing cybersecurity steps and are deemed as "low risk.”

"They are designed to move the Philippines' national cybersecurity forward in successive steps,” he added.

These include encouraging cyber awareness at all levels such as in schools, workplaces and homes and ensuring that the government is staffed by competent cybersecurity personnel while cybersecurity initiatives are "sufficiently funded" to toughen the country's information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure.

He also recommended the formal adoption of a cyber "common consistent lexicon" such as the US National Institute for Standards and Technology's (NIST) National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education Workforce Framework for Cybersecurity.

To allow regular Filipinos to resist cyberattacks themselves, the study also recommended ensuring Filipinos have to right to freeze their credit.

The second track of recommendations, he said, are "jumpstart" or adaptive solutions that are meant to move the country's cybersecurity posture by a "leap."

"The jumpstart/adaptive track recommendations are designed to 'prime the pump' for a more robust Philippines' cybersecurity ecosystem," he said.

One of these is appointing an executive agency for cybersecurity that would review and right-size current cyber laws, use tax incentives to create cyber apprentice programs and provide grants to create cybersecurity centers of excellence.

In addition, such an executive agency may provide vouchers for certification exams, provide "after-the-fact" 50 percent scholarship to computer engineering graduates that pass selected cyber- or privacy examinations as well as regulating the cost of training.

He highlighted that such agency would need to collaborate with several government agencies such as the Technical Education and Skills Development Agency (TESDA), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the Philippine legislature and the private sector.

The second "jumpstart" recommendation is implementing a cybersecurity curriculum that reflect local and global market demand.

To ensure that the national government has its own professional cybersecurity workforce, the study also proposed making the government cyber pay scale "competitive."

He said recruitment in the cyberspace sector is difficult for many nations and suggested that the best for a country to protect itself is to retain its "best people."

To ensure legal consequences for cybercriminals, the report also recommended enhancing and implementing cybersecurity legal training for judges.

"The Philippine Supreme Court should move to facilitate cybersecurity legal training for judges appointed to hear cybersecurity cases in coordination with the executive agency for cybersecurity," he said.

Lastly, the report recommended sponsoring a national cyber consortium in the Philippines.

"The executive agency for cybersecurity should sponsor and chair a national cyber consortium to ensure the cybersecurity ecosystem is improving and adapting to the changing local and global market," he said.

The consortium, he said, should consider meeting every quarter, or every three months, to "adapt these initiatives" and report back to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

He said representatives of the consortium should include those from the Office of the President (OP), DICT, cyber organizations in the military and intelligence, cyber law enforcement agencies, CHED, TESDA, Department of Education (DepEd), Supreme Court, the academic and private sector, as well as other relevant stakeholders.

If the country fails to adopt or address these recommendations, he said the Philippines will fail to increase the size of its cyber workforce, will continue to have "great difficulty" recruiting and retaining cyber talent (especially in the public sector), and be unable to take advantage of the growing world demand for cyber expertise through the country's business process outsourcing (BPO) sector.

On the other hand, if the country is only able to adopt measures in the first track or incremental recommendations, there is a 75 percent possibility that the USD23 billion BPO sector in the country may be "jeopardized."

"Without a jumpstart for the Philippines cyber ecosystem, there is a high business risk to the Philippine economy," he said.

Another risk brought about by the continued lack in the cyber workforce, he said, would be the consequences of cyber attacks, noting that it is not a question of "if" but "when" such attacks happen.

However, if both tracks of recommendations are adopted, it will create a cybersecurity ecosystem that allows cybersecurity stakeholders to "ask questions that address issues and concerns above-and-beyond mere compliance."

The country's cyber ecosystem would also allow the use of "many positive levers" to manipulate its environment.

During the event, Garrity was joined by several government officials such as Senator Grace Poe, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, DICT Secretary Ivan John Uy, IBM Philippines president and country general manager Aileen Jiao, IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines executive director Frankie Antolin, and other top ranking executives and officials in the government and private sector.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190327

French military research center wants to partner with PH

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 8, 2022): French military research center wants to partner with PH (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)



IRSEM Acting Director Dr. Marjorie Vanbaelinghem (PNA photo by Joyce Ann Rocamora)

MANILA – A research center under France's Ministry of the Armed Forces is looking to partner and produce joint publications with Philippine education institutions.

The Institute for Strategic Research (IRSEM) said the potential scope for collaboration is broad given the country's position in the region and France's Indo-Pacific strategy.

"I believe that if we want to have an Indo-Pacific strategy as diversified as we want it to be, we need to pay attention to the viewpoints and realities not just of the biggest countries, like the US, China, or Japan, but also to very important players in the area," IRSEM Acting Director Marjorie Vanbaelinghem told reporters on Tuesday.

Vanbaelinghem is in the Philippines from Dec. 5 to 9 to meet with the National Defense College of the Philippines and the Ateneo School of Government (ASOG).

Among the topics discussed during these meetings were the importance of research, higher military education, as well as ASOG's studies on information warfare and the blue economy.

IRSEM mostly works on academic research focused on international relations, military doctrine, and the sociology of defense.


There is no timeline as to when an agreement between the French and Filipino institutes would be forged but Vanbaelinghem sees joint seminars and more IRSEM researchers visiting the Philippines in 2023.

She highlighted the need for "fresh research", given the developments in the region, including the Taiwan Strait tensions and maritime rows in the South China Sea.

"A lot of international relations theories don't help in the current situation. I think there's a lack of concepts and words, and that's one of the reason why at my institute, we're very eager to work with new actors and new researchers to come out of the old concepts," she said.

Vanbaelinghem, meanwhile, said she was struck by the "very balanced perspective" of the Filipino academe on the current state of play in Asia.

"What I'm very interested in the Philippines is that the country has been dealing with internal threats, as well as external threats. So this balancing of home affairs and international relations issues is quite unique," she said.

"That's probably the reason why people have such a well informed and deep viewpoints and expertise on those topics of security and defense."

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190337

Recuperating troops get Christmas packages

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 8, 2022): Recuperating troops get Christmas packages (By Priam Nepomuceno)



GIFT GIVING. Department of National Defense officer in charge, Undersecretary Jose C. Faustino Jr. (right), shares a light moment with combat-wounded troops during the gift-giving and visitation activity at the function hall of the Army General Hospital in Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila on Dec. 6, 2022. Faustino said the gift-giving activity is meant to uplift the morale of combat-wounded soldiers and recognize their sacrifice and service to the country. (Photo courtesy of PA)

MANILA – Combat-wounded troops recuperating from their injuries at the Army General Hospital (AGH) in Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila received Christmas packages from Department of National Defense (DND) officer in charge, Undersecretary Jose C. Faustino Jr., on December 6.

Philippine Army (PA) spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad, in a statement Thursday, said the activity took place at the function hall of the AGH.

"Combat-wounded troops recuperating at the AGH received Christmas packages during the gift-giving and visitation activity led by DND officer in charge, Undersecretary Jose C. Faustino Jr., and Army vice commander Maj. Gen. Adonis R. Bajao at the AGH Function Hall, Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila on Dec. 6, 2022," he said.

Bajao and PA Headquarters and Headquarters Support Group (HHSG) commander Brig. Gen. Moises M. Nayve Jr. assisted Faustino in distributing the gift packs to the recuperating troops.

Faustino said the gift-giving activity is meant to uplift the morale of combat-wounded soldiers and to recognize their sacrifice and service to the country.

”Hindi man ito sapat upang masuklian ang sakripisyong inialay ninyo para sa ating bayan at mga kababayan, nawa ay magsilbi itong paalala sa ating mga kasundaluhan na walang maiiwanan, walang mapapabayaan. Sisikapin naming matugunan ang inyong pangangailangan bilang mga bayani ng ating bayan (While this may not be enough to compensate you for the sacrifices you made for the country and our fellow Filipinos, this will remind our soldiers that no one will be left behind and neglected. We will try to ensure that we provide for your needs as befitting a hero of the country)," he said.

The activity is part of the DND's Christmas tradition project called "KAPAGDAKA" (Kapakanan at Gabay sa Dating Kaanyuan), which promotes the welfare of soldiers who were injured during the fulfillment of the mission.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190342

Wescom task forces conduct Malampaya take down exercises

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 8, 2022): Wescom task forces conduct Malampaya take down exercises (By Priam Nepomuceno)



GOPLAT. Military personnel conduct a "GOPLAT" exercise aboard the Malampaya platform on Dec. 4, 2022. The exercise aims to assess the operational readiness and preparedness of Joint Task Force West and Joint Task Force Malampaya in securing the Malampaya Natural Gas to Power Project platform in cases of emergencies. (Photo courtesy of Naval Forces West)

MANILA – Western Command (Wescom) task forces have successfully conducted another series of "gas-oil platform takedown" (GOPLAT) exercises that aim to assess the capabilities of these units in protecting the vital Malampaya Natural Gas to Power Project (MNGPP) platform.

Involved in the GOPLAT exercises are the Joint Task Force West (JTFW) and Joint Task Force Malampaya (JTFM), the Naval Forces West said in a statement Wednesday night.

The drills took place on December 4 to 5, it added.

"Wescom, through JTFW and JTFM, carried out the fourth iteration of the GOPLAT exercise 2022 from December 4-5, 2022. The exercise aims to assess the operational readiness and preparedness of JTFW and JTFM in securing the MNGPP platform in cases of emergencies that may arise," it added.


During the exercise, activities such as vertical insertion, non-compliant visits, board, search, and seizure were conducted.

The units and assets that participated in the exercise included two multi-purpose attack craft, BA-483 and BA-484, special operation teams, an unmanned aerial system (UAS), a Navy AW-109 "Power", and an Air Force W-3A "Sokol" helicopter.

"This year’s iteration of the GOPLAT exercise was highlighted with the use of high-angle sniping on an AW-109 Navy helicopter and the use of UAS for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance," it added.

Naval Forces West deputy commander for fleet operations Capt. Brendo J. Casaclang, who is also co-director of the exercise, said participating units showcased their capabilities to respond in times of emergencies and acts of terrorism in the MNGPP.

JTFM deputy commander Capt. Arnel F. Teodoro said the exercise aims to enhance the command and control, collaboration, and readiness of the Armed Forces of the Philippines units and other stakeholders during emergencies in the asset.

“The Malampaya Project is one of the country’s economic crown jewels that provides more or less ten-hour of electricity to mainland Luzon, particularly in the National Capital Region. It is imperative that coordinated and unified protection of the project is guaranteed and available on time," he added.

Meanwhile, JTFM commander Marine Brig. Gen. Robert I. Velasco said only the Navy "has the capability to recover and take down the MNGPP in case of emergencies, attacks, and intrusions."

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190341

PH Army concludes 1st aeromedical evacuation training program

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 8, 2022): PH Army concludes 1st aeromedical evacuation training program (By Priam Nepomuceno)



1ST AEROMEDICAL TRAINING. Headquarters Support Group (HHSG) Commander Brig. Gen. Moises M. Nayve, Jr., hands over the certificate to one of the graduates of the Philippine Army's first-ever aeromedical evacuation training program during the closing ceremony at the Philippine Army Officers’ Clubhouse Pavillion, Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila on Dec. 5, 2022. The training enhances the student’s knowledge and skills in treating and increasing the survivability of combat-wounded soldiers. (Photo courtesy of PA)

MANILA – The Philippine Army (PA) has concluded on Dec. 5 its first-ever aeromedical evacuation training program which is designed to save the lives of its combat casualties.

PA spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad, in a statement on Thursday, said 17 students completed the training program which is divided into the Army Flight Medic Course and the Army Critical Care Flight Medic Course.

Training of the participants started early this January. Closing ceremonies were at the PA Officers' Clubhouse Pavilion, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

"The two-tiered program, which is facilitated by the Office of the Army Chief Nurse and Office of the Amy Chief Surgeon in collaboration with the Army Aviation Regiment and the Philippine Emergency Medical Service Authority, enhanced the student’s knowledge and skills in treating and increasing the survivability of combat-wounded soldiers," Trinidad said.

He added the program also helped upgrade the Aviation Regiment’s aeromedical capability in light of the acquisition of new rotary wing assets that will be used in the transport of battle casualties.

”Through this course, we can proudly say that we already have the capability to rescue and take care of our combat casualties,” PA Headquarters Support Group (HHSG) commander Brig. Gen. Moises Nayve Jr. said in a speech on behalf of Army chief Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr.

Aerial medical evacuation is the fastest way to transport a combat-wounded soldier from the point of injury to the nearest medical treatment facility.

“The course will capacitate Army surgeons, nurses and flight technicians in improving the chances of survival of combat-wounded soldiers,” Army Chief Nurse Col. Maria Victoria Juan said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190382

PH Army remains committed to fighting violence against women

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 9, 2022): PH Army remains committed to fighting violence against women (By Priam Nepomuceno)



COMMITMENT. Army vice commander Maj. Gen. Adonis R. Bajao delivers his message during the Culmination Ceremony of the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women on Dec. 6, 2022 held at the Headquarters Philippine Army, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Bajao said the Philippine Army (PA) is committed to eliminating violence against women. (Photo from PA)

MANILA – The Philippine Army (PA) is committed to eliminating violence against women (VAW) as it formally ends its 18th day campaign against this societal ill last Dec. 6.

“May our participation, not only in this campaign but also in our life-long commitment to fight the pervasive effects of VAW, serve as a reminder for us to always uphold our ethical duties as professional and disciplined servant-soldiers in the organization,” Army vice commander Maj. Adonis Bajao said in a statement Thursday.

The PA's 18-day campaign against VAW was made possible through its Office of the Army Gender and Development (OAGAD).

Closing ceremonies took place at PA headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila.


Bajao also expressed his gratitude to the Army personnel and resource speakers for their active support in the campaign.

As this developed, the PA, through the Office of the Inspector General (IG), conducted the 25th Inspector General Service Seminar 2022 last Dec. 6 and 7.

Army spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad said the activity was held at the Philippine Army Intelligence Center of Excellence (PAICOE) in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

He added PA acting chief-of-staff Maj. Gen. Jose Eriel M. Niembra, who served as guest-of-honor and speaker, stressed the significance of the IG’s job as the beacon of exemplary service.

"Maj. Gen. Niembra also encouraged PA Major Units (PAMU) Inspector General Service (IGS) units to utilize all fresh ideas for improvement and to strive on being the bearers of standards among fellow troops," Trinidad said.

The IGS Seminar was attended by 35 participants from various IG units.

The seminar reviewed the inspection parameters and rating system to be used for the 2023 Annual General Inspection (AGI). It pursued initiatives on empowering the IG units through collaborative discussions that addressed the issues and challenges by stakeholders in relation to the common and recurring AGI findings.

The gathering also sustained the initiatives of the Army Transformation Roadmap (ATR) relevant to the IGS.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190406

PBBM leads blessing of 2 brand-new attack helicopters

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 9, 2022): PBBM leads blessing of 2 brand-new attack helicopters (By Priam Nepomuceno)


Photo courtesy of the Office of the President

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said his administration fully supports the Philippine Air Force (PAF)'s ongoing modernization efforts as he led the ceremonial blessing of the two Turkish-made T129 "Atak" helicopters in Malacañang on Friday.

The Chief Executive also expressed hope that the modernization goal and PAF’s recent advancement will drive it to enhance its defense capabilities consistently, perform its duties effectively and protect the nation with vigor and pride.


Marcos said he expects that the recently acquired state-of-the-art helicopters will improve the Air Force’s operational readiness and responsiveness and empower it to fulfill its mandate to the country and the people.

The President also appreciated the contribution of the government of Turkiye and the Turkish Aerospace Industries for being reliable partners of the Philippine government in modernizing the PAF.

At the same time, President Marcos expressed gratitude to the PAF and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for their invaluable contribution to the nation’s external defense, internal security operations, as well as disaster relief and response operations.

Last March, PAF received the two T129 along with unspecific logistics support equipment under a USD269 million government-to-government contract with Turkiye that was signed in July 2020.

The Philippines has six helicopters on order under the multi-million dollar contract, which is part of the Horizon 2 phase of the AFP modernization program.

The T129 helicopters are being manufactured by Turkish Aerospace Industries based on the AgustaWestland A129 Mangusta design.

The new assets will complement a pair of refurbished Bell AH-1S Huey "Cobra" attack helicopters from Jordan, along with armed light observation and transport helicopters in PAF’s inventory.


The first two T129s were delivered last March 9.

These aircraft will be utilized for territorial defense, aerial surveillance and reconnaissance, counter-insurgency combat operations and combat support operations.

Its roles are close air support, precision strike, deep strike, suppression of enemy Air defense, security/urban warfare, and air-to-air warfare.

The T129 is a twin-engine, tandem seat, multi-role, all-weather attack helicopter and armed with a variety of guns, rockets, missiles, sensors and targeting systems.

It has a cruising speed of 120 knots and a range of 250 nautical miles.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190437

PNP-SAF offers 5 specialized courses to enhance capabilities

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 9, 2022): PNP-SAF offers 5 specialized courses to enhance capabilities (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)


Photo courtesy of PNP

MANILA – The Philippine National Police-Special Action Force (PNP-SAF) has opened five courses to further capacitate its operatives.

In a statement on Friday, PNP chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr., officially opened the SAF training courses on Thursday in a simple ceremony held in Camp Bagong Diwa, Bicutan, Taguig City.

Opened simultaneously were the Special Action Force Commando Course (SAFCC) Classes 120 and 121-2022, SAF Basic Airborne Course (SAFBAC) class 55-2022, Basic Mechanized Operation Course (BMOC) class 03-2022, SAF Sniper Course (SAFS) 14-2022, Intelligence Basic Course (IBC) CLASS 59-2022, and Parachute Packing Course (PPC) Class 01-2022.


Azurin said the PNP will continue to enhance the operational capability and efficiency of PNP-SAF in performing its mandate and functions.

He said the PNP elite unit enlivens its virtue to serve God, country and people with utmost excellence living up with the SAF motto, “By skill and Virtue, We Triumph”.

"We must be bolder, tougher, stronger and faster than the evil elements we are fighting against. We thus need men and women in the police force who will respond to the demands of the job and the expectations of the people we serve and protect," Azurin said. (

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190429

Calabarzon police lauded in ex-rebels' surrender in Batangas

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 11, 2022): Calabarzon police lauded in ex-rebels' surrender in Batangas (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)



Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Rodolfo Azurin Jr. (PNA file photo)

MANILA – Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. has lauded the Police Regional Office (PRO) 4-A (Calabarzon) after former rebels surrendered with their firearms to authorities in Batangas.

In a statement on Saturday, Azurin said 14 members of Eduardo Dagli Command group under combat support element of Sub-Regional Military Area (SRMA) 4C and New People’s Army (NPA) yielded to authorities in Brgy. Matabungkay, Lian, Batangas on Friday.

They are now under the custody of 403rd Maneuver Company Regional Mobile Force Battalion 4-A.


"I commend all the units involved in this successful accomplishment headed by Brig. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., Regional Director PRO 4-A. Let us continue doing our best to ensure the maintenance of peace and order in our community, especially this coming holidays,” Azurin said.

“The PNP is continuously extending the government's arms of reconciliation and peace, especially to those who wish to return to the fold of the law, cooperate in nation-building and live peacefully and happily in the community together with their families,” he said.

Meanwhile, Interior Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. said President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s administration remains committed in addressing the country’s insurgency woes as it also provides assistance to former rebels to return to mainstream society.

Through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), Abalos said the national government has helped 1,100 former rebels get back to the fold of the society since July 1.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190509

Leader of armed group yields in Basilan town

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 3, 2022): Leader of armed group yields in Basilan town (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)



ZAMBOANGA CITY – A leader of a clan, listed as a potential private armed group, has surrendered to authorities in the province of Basilan, a top police official said Saturday.

Col. Richard Verceles, operations chief of the Area Police Command-Western Mindanao, said Sabtarul Arasalun, 66, surrendered around 10 a.m. Friday at the town hall of Tipo-Tipo, Basilan province.

Verceles said Arasalun is the leader of the Hamuto clan, listed as a potential private armed group in Barangay Lagayas, Tipo-Tipo.

Arasalun turned over a .38-caliber revolver with tampered serial number and ammunition.


With the surrender of Arasalun, the Hamuto clan will be delisted in the data of potential private armed groups in Basilan as of the fourth quarter of 2022.

Private armed groups are often utilized by politicians during elections.

Verceles said Arasalun will be reintegrated back into his community where he will be closely monitored by the Tipo-Tipo Municipal Police Station to ensure that he will abide by the law.

The surrender of Arasalun was witnessed by Tipo-Tipo Mayor Arcam Istarul and top police and military officials in Basilan province.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190015

Victims get justice with deaths of NPA leaders in N. Samar clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 5, 2022): Victims get justice with deaths of NPA leaders in N. Samar clash (By Sarwell Meniano)



JUSTICE SERVED. The wake of top leaders of the New People's Army in Eastern Visayas outside the municipal hall of Las Navas, Northern Samar province in this Nov. 27, 2022 photo. The recent deaths of six top leaders of the New People’s Army in Eastern Visayas have given justice to the victims of the communist group’s treacherous attacks in the region, an official of the Philippine Army said. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

TACLOBAN CITY – The recent deaths of six top leaders of the New People’s Army in Eastern Visayas have given justice to the victims of the communist group’s treacherous attacks in the region, an official of the Philippine Army said on Monday.

Maj. Gen. Camilo Ligayo, commander of the Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Division, said the NPA leaders slain during the Nov. 23 clash in Imelda village in Las Navas, Northern Samar have been identified as behind several attacks that killed and hurt government troops and civilians.

"The death of these terrorist means justice to the people of Samar and Leyte they have terrorized for years. Remote communities in the region should have been developed long ago if not for the NPA’s violent activities," Ligayo said in a statement.

These rebels were killed when government forces launched an attack destroying a major lair of NPA with 30 huts and a big cottage for meetings.

The military earlier said that among those who died during the clash was Helenita Pardales, the top leader holding the position of secretary of the NPA’s Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC).


“The leader defines the direction of EVRPC and sets recruitment quotas both for combatants from farmer's children and cadre from universities and colleges. She enforces the order of the central committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines and gives the go signal on tactical offensives within the region,” Ligayo added.

Also killed was alias Orlan who heads the EVRPC regional operations command. He plans and supervises to ensure the successful implementation of a tactical offensive of all NPA units in the region.

Other casualties after the Nov. 23 fierce gun battle were members of the regional security force tasked to provide security to EVRPC's leadership led by Alias Mamoy; alias Caridad, finance officer; alias Joshua, team leader; and alias Boy, team member.


Ligayo said EVRPC can be best remembered through their attacks that killed and wounded soldiers and civilians.

On Aug. 10, 2018, they attacked the Lapinig Police Station in Northern Samar leaving two policemen wounded and carted away low and high-powered firearms.

A soldier was also killed during their attack in Palapag, Northern Samar last May 21, 2019.

On Oct. 7, 2022, two soldiers were killed and another two were wounded including a 10-year-old civilian.

They were also responsible for the series of ambushes on trails used by civilians using the banned anti-personnel mines (APMs).

On April 23, 2019, they used APMs to attack the community support program teams in Calbiga, Samar that killed six soldiers and injured six others.

A roadside blast on Dec. 13, 2019 killed a policeman and wounded 11 civilians in Borongan City, Eastern Samar.

The same group also detonated mines along the Marabut-Basey Road in Samar, killing a policeman and injuring two more on Dec. 10, 2020.

In Jipapad, Eastern Samar, there were a series of mine explosions that killed a soldier, two militiamen, and injured eight soldiers and six militiamen.

The attack in Dorillo village in Jipapad town last Oct. 7 killed two soldiers and wounded a 10-year old child and two soldiers. The attack also pierced hundreds of bullets hitting 15 houses and barangay facilities.

EVRPC also gave go signal to many more attacks in villages and government projects.

It burned several construction equipment on July 29, 2021, in San Francisco village, Las Navas town, Northern Samar delaying the construction of a road linking the province to Eastern Samar.

The Nov. 23 encounter not only left six NPA leaders dead, but also led to the recovery of 18 high-powered firearms, anti-personnel mines, grenades, laptops, cellphones, medicines, and notes.


https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190077

Slain NPA leader, 2 others had arrest order for attempted murder

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 5, 2022): Slain NPA leader, 2 others had arrest order for attempted murder (By Nanette Guadalquiver)



ARREST ORDER. A copy of the warrant of arrest for attempted murder issued by Acting Presiding Judge Walter Zorilla of the Regional Trial Court Branch 56 based in Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental to the late New People’s Army leader Ericson Acosta and two of his comrades on Dec. 1, 2022. The order came a day after Acosta died in an encounter with government troops in Sitio Makilo, Barangay Camansi of the neighboring Kabankalan City on Nov. 30. (Image courtesy of RTF-ELCAC Western Visayas)

BACOLOD CITY – The late New People’s Army (NPA) leader Ericson Acosta had been issued an arrest warrant by the Regional Trial Court (RTC) for his involvement in the series of encounters that injured several soldiers in Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental in October this year.

He was among the three accused, aside from comrades Christian Job Joaquin Vargas and Mylene Malasabas Delgado, listed in the order issued by RTC Branch 56 Acting Presiding Judge Walter Zorilla on Dec. 1, a day after he was killed during a clash with troops of the Philippine Army’s 94th and 47th Infantry Battalions (IB) in the neighboring Kabankalan City.

Lt. Judesses Catalogo, public information officer of the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office, said Monday that with Acosta’s death, his criminal liability has been extinguished.

He noted that procedures are being followed in the filing of the case until it reaches the court, and it so happened that the warrant of arrest came out only after the NPA leader had already died.


Capt. Eduardo Rarugal, civil military operations officer of 94IB, who also confirmed that Acosta had an arrest order, said the late NPA leader was involved during the armed encounters in October in the hinterlands of Barangay Carabalan.

“He orchestrated the movements of the NPA in the entire Negros being the top leader of the Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros, Cebu, Bohol and Siquijor (KR-NCBS),” he added.

Six soldiers of the 94IB were wounded during the Carabalan encounters.

In the case of the two other accused, the military hoped that they would surrender rather suffer the same fate as their leader, Rarugal said.

“But while we are enticing them to surrender, we are conducting relentless operations. There’s that dual effort. If they refuse to surrender, they might be hit during our operations like what happened to Acosta,” he added.

The bodies of Acosta, 50, also known as “ Ka Raffy”, and Joseph Jimenez, 52, staff of KR-NCBS Regional Organizing Division, were found after their group engaged government troops in Sitio Makilo, Barangay Camansi, Kabankalan City early morning of Nov. 30.

Meanwhile, the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict-Western Visayas (RTF-ELCAC 6) dismissed the claim of the National Democratic Front (NDF)-Negros that Acosta, whom they identified as a consultant, and his comrade did not just die in an encounter, but were murdered instead.

In a statement, Prosecutor Flosemer Chris Gonzales, spokesperson of legal Cooperation Cluster of RTF-ELCAC 6, said such is part of the hate narrative being propagated by the propaganda machinery of the Communist Party of the Philippines-NDF-NPA, which is designated as a terrorist organization in the Philippines and in several other countries.


“Romanticizing Ericson Acosta's death will not change the fact that he chose to take a path of violence when he took up arms against the state and against the Filipino people,” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190090

Peace council OKs P1.7-B fund for peace, order programs

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 5, 2022): Peace council OKs P1.7-B fund for peace, order programs (By Che Palicte)



DAVAO CITY – The Davao del Norte Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) has approved the PHP1.77-billion Peace and Order and Public Safety (POPS) plan fund for the year 2023-2025.

In a statement Monday, Governor Edwin Jubahib said at least PHP1.3 billion is allocated for the Peace and Order Program while the PHP451 million is for the Public Safety Program.

The POPS Plan budget was approved during the PPOC meeting on Dec. 2, he said.

Jubahib said the PHP1.11 billion funding came from the provincial government, while the PHP661.77 million came from the national government's official development assistance (ODA).


"For 2023, the POPS programs and projects have a budget of PHP709.4 million. The biggest chunk of the three-year POPS plan is the Serbisyo Caravan done in the far-flung areas," Jubahib said.

He noted that the three-year POPS plan contains comprehensive programs which aim at achieving a safe, orderly, peaceful and progressive community.

Jubahib said the plan also serves as a requirement for the approval of the allocation of the confidential fund (CF) of the local chief executive, which will be subjected to review by the Department of the Interior and Local Government for endorsement to the Department of Budget and Management.

"The PPOC will immediately forward the resolution of the POPS plan to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan subject to approval by the provincial government for the provision of sufficient funds," he added.

Aside from using his CF for "surveillance activities" to support his operations and fulfill his mandate as governor, Jubahib said he will also use the funds in situations that require immediate action.

"Even though the province has been declared as an insurgency-free province, it is still necessary to strengthen the programs of peace and order and public safety to ensure that the New People's Army rebels do not return to disturb the province," he said.

Davao del Norte was declared insurgency-free in June this year.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190088

14 ex-Zambo Sur rebels, militiamen undergo carpentry training

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 5, 2022): 14 ex-Zambo Sur rebels, militiamen undergo carpentry training (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)



ZAMBOANGA CITY – Fourteen former New People’s Army (NPA) rebels and six militiamen are undergoing a 41-day carpentry training in Guipos, Zamboanga del Sur, the 53rd Infantry Battalion (IB) said Monday.

The training, which kicked-off last Friday at Camp Major David Sabido, is a joint undertaking of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and 53IB.

“The training intends to capacitate the FRs (former rebels) and CAFGU (Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit) members with skills in carpentry to expand their livelihood potential and become more productive members of society,” Lt. Col. Terence Ylanan, 53IB commander, said in a statement.


Caril Ann Ong, TESDA-Zamboanga del Sur head, said the agency is ready to extend basic services for the reintegration of former NPA rebels to the mainstream society.

Ylanan, meanwhile, thanked TESDA for providing livelihood training “for the benefit of our FRs and our CAFGU Active Auxiliaries.”

The participants will receive Carpentry National Certificate 2 upon completion of the training.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190129

Army reserve command to establish platoons in Antique

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 6, 2022): Army reserve command to establish platoons in Antique (By Annabel Consuelo Petinglay)



COURTESY CALL. Philippine Army Reserve Command 602nd Community Defense Center Director, Lt. Col. Danny Bustamante (second from left), with the other reserve officers during their courtesy call with Antique Governor Rhodora Cadiao at the capitol on Dec. 5, 2022. Bustamante said in an interview Tuesday (Dec. 6, 2022) they are now maximizing the enlistment of reservists to establish a platoon-size reserve force throughout the province. (PNA photo courtesy of Antique PIO)

SAN JOSE DE BUENAVISTA, Antique – The Philippine Army Reserve Command 602nd Community Defense Center (CDC) will establish reservist platoons in all 18 municipalities of Antique province.

Lt. Col. Danny Bustamante, 602nd CDC director in Antique, said on Tuesday they are in the process of enlisting interested individuals, including elected officials and other professionals, to become reservists in the province upon the direction of their Regional Community Defense Group Commander, Col. Crisanto Calit.

“We need to be able to enlist and train a platoon size or 20 reservists in each of the 18 municipalities of the province,” he said in an interview.


He added that they are maximizing the enlistment due to lessons learned during the Severe Tropical Storm Paeng where they had to deploy reserve forces due to the massive damage in the province.

Antique currently has 446 enlisted reservists with 16 officers although some are inactive or no longer in Antique.

“If we have platoon size reservists in every municipality, we could easily mobilize them whenever needed,” he said.

Bustamante also said those interested can just go to the CDC here to be included in the training in June next year.

In a separate interview, Vice Governor Edgar Denosta, who is a reserve officer himself, said the reservists are important because they not only help in the relief operation of the local government units (LGUs) but also in the internal security and intelligence network.

“The reservists also render community service in the barangays,” Denosta said.

Other elected officials who have enlisted in the reserve force are Governor Rhodora J. Cadiao and Board Members Karmila Dimamay, Alfie Jay Niquia, and Pio Jessielito Sumande.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190179

Ex-Basilan town official killed, husband wounded

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 6, 2022): Ex-Basilan town official killed, husband wounded (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)



Google map of Isabela City, Basilan Island province.

ZAMBOANGA CITY – A former town official was killed while her husband was wounded in a predawn drive-by shooting incident in Isabela City of Basilan province on Tuesday.

Col. Richard Verceles, operations chief of the Area Police Command-Western Mindanao, said Melissa Alih, 30, died while her husband, Jack, 30, was hospitalized following the 12:10 a.m. attack.

Melissa was the former assistant municipal secretary in the island town of Hadji Muhtamad, Basilan.


Verceles said investigation showed the couple was aboard a motorcycle on the way home to Barangay Tabuk, Isabela City, when repeatedly shot at closed range by one of two men riding tandem on another motorcycle that tailed them in Barangay Doña Ramona T. Alano.

He said the attending physician declared that Melissa expired around 12:45 a.m.

Police investigators recovered four empty shells from a .45-caliber pistol at the crime scene.

A thorough probe is underway to determine the motive as well as identities of the perpetrators behind the incident, police said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190178

Gov’t taps ex-ASG members in anti-terror campaign

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 6, 2022): Gov’t taps ex-ASG members in anti-terror campaign (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)



DERADICALIZED. The government has tapped the assistance of former members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in the campaign against terrorism in Basilan province. Brig. Gen. Domingo Gobway, the Joint Task Force (JTF)-Basilan commander, says Tuesday (Dec. 6, 2022) that 15 former ASG members completed on Dec. 4 the three-day deradicalization training program for the initiative. (Photo courtesy of JTF-Basilan)

ZAMBOANGA CITY – The government is tapping former members of the Basilan-based Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) to assist in its campaign against terrorism and serve as peace advocates in the island province.

Brig. Gen. Domingo Gobway, the Joint Task Force (JTF)-Basilan commander, said in a statement Tuesday that the ex-ASGs will be tapped to encourage remaining ASG members to surrender “because the government will always help them give a brighter future.”

Gobway said 15 former ASG members initially completed on Sunday a three-day deradicalization training program held at the headquarters JTF-Basilan in Isabela City.


Gobway said the program intends to capacitate the former ASG members in their role as peace advocates in the community.

The program also aims to educate the ex-ASGs on the fundamentals of public speaking to enlighten the minds of Basileños as living testimonies of how miserable their lives would be if they join the extremist group.

The deradicalization program was a joint undertaking of the Philippine Army, through the 1st Infantry Division civil-military operations office, in partnership with JTF-Basilan, the Basilan provincial government, and the Ministry of Public Order and Safety in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (MPOS-BARMM).


https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190217

RTF-ELCAC lauds convictions of NPA leader, comrades in Negros

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 7, 2022): RTF-ELCAC lauds convictions of NPA leader, comrades in Negros (By Nanette Guadalquiver)



GUILTY. A copy of the list of cases where New People’s Army leader Abraham Villanueva and his three comrades have been convicted during the promulgation before the Regional Trial Court Branch 61 in Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental on Tuesday (Dec. 6, 2022). The team of the Office of the City Prosecutor of Kabankalan secured nine convictions out of the 10 cases filed against the accused, who are members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-National Democratic Front and the NPA operating in Negros Island. (Image from RTF-ELCAC Western Visayas)

BACOLOD CITY – The Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict-Western Visayas (RTF-ELCAC 6) has lauded the convictions of New People’s Army (NPA) leader Abraham Villanueva and his three comrades for various criminal cases before the Regional Trial Court Branch 61 in Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental on Tuesday.

Prosecutor Flosemer Chris Gonzales, spokesperson of legal Cooperation Cluster of RTF-ELCAC 6, said in a statement the team of the Office of the City Prosecutor of Kabankalan secured nine convictions out of the 10 cases filed against the accused, who are members of the Communist Party of the Philippines, and its political wing, National Democratic Front, and the NPA operating in Negros Island.


Based on the list provided by the RTF-ELCAC 6, Villanueva, known by the alias “Tikboy,” was convicted of violation of Section 28 (a) in relation to Section 28 (e) Republic Act (RA) 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act and of the Commission on Elections Resolution 10446 or the Comelec gun ban in relation to Section 261 (q) of Batas Pambansa 881 or the Omnibus Election Code.

Villanueva was also found guilty of illegal possession of explosives.

His companion, Joemar Villarojo Reyes, with aliases “Tiny/Joe”, and a third accused, Rona Magbanua Degoso, with alias “Chichi”, were convicted of illegal possession of explosives and violation of the election gun ban.

In a separate promulgation, Renan Hoyohoy Manlanat, also known as “July”, was convicted of attempted murder and also of violation of RA 10591, but has been cleared of illegal possession of explosives.


All the accused have been detained at the Negros Occidental District Jail in Bago City.

“We commend the men and women of the Office of the City Prosecutor of Kabankalan City under the leadership of OIC City Prosecutor Noreen A. Pillado-Gambito,” Gonzales said.

He said “these convictions are victories that would bring the people of Negros Island and the entire country one step closer to winning the peace by ending the local communist armed conflict”.

Villanueva, the secretary of the NPA South West Front, was arrested by government forces in Sitio Amian Ilawod, Barangay Tampalon in Kabankalan City on the night of April 1, 2019.

Arrested with him were Reyes, identified initially as Jomar Villarojo, of Barangay Camansi, Kabankalan City, and an 18-year-old from Barangay Asia, Hinoba-an.

According to the Philippine Army, Villanueva led the NPA cadres in the province’s sixth district comprised of the municipalities of Candoni, Hinoba-an, Ilog, Cauayan, and the cities of Kabankalan and Sipalay.

During their arrest, Villanueva and his two comrades were wearing black sweatshirts with the print PKP or Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas @50 and black jogging pants.

They yielded a .45-caliber pistol, a magazine with five pieces of ammunition and three hand grenades, based on the report of the Philippine Army.


https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190272

Caraga cops nab wanted NPA leaders with 33 arrest warrants

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 8, 2022): Caraga cops nab wanted NPA leaders with 33 arrest warrants (By Alexander Lopez)



ARRESTED NPA LEADER. The Police Regional Office 13 (Caraga) reported the arrest of Kim Mapoy, 28, the former secretary of the Dismantled Guerrilla Front 4A (GF-4A), North Center Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) of the New People’s Army in an operation in Alubijid, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte on Dec. 6, 2022. Authorities also nabbed in a separate operation on the same day the suspect’s brother Loreto Mapoy, the former commanding officer of Platoon Joker, GF4A, NCMRC. (Photo courtesy of PRO-13 Information Office)

BUTUAN CITY – Two leaders of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) who are wanted for various criminal offenses were arrested by police units under the Police Regional Office (PRO) 13 (Caraga).

In a statement Thursday, PRO-13 Director, Brig. Gen. Pablo Labra II, identified the arrested NPA leaders as siblings Kim Mapoy, alias Patrick, 28, and Loreto Mapoy, alias Arvin, 35, both residents of Barangay Lower Olave in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.

Kim Mapoy was arrested in Barangay Alubijid, Buenavista on Tuesday while Loreto Mapoy was arrested later on the same day in Purok 7, Barangay 7, Buenavista.

“Kim Mapoy is listed as the No. 1 Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) Priority Target and listed in the Periodic Status Report (PSR) of PRO-13,” Labra said.

He added that Kim Mapoy is the former secretary of the Dismantled Guerrilla Front 4A (GF-4A), North Center Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) of the NPA.


The NPA leader, Labra said, is wanted for the crimes of murder, arson, multiple attempted murder, attempted murder, and multiple frustrated murder with 19 arrest warrants issued by the local courts in Butuan City.

Loreto Mapoy, on the other hand, was the former commanding officer of Platoon Joker, GF4A, NCMRC, and was also classified as the No. 2 in the CTG Priority Target of PRO-13 and PSR.

“He has 14 standing arrest warrants issued by the local courts in Butuan for murder, arson, multiple attempted murder, attempted murder, and multiple frustrated murder,” Labra said.

Reports gathered by PRO-13 indicated that the Mapoy brothers were involved in multiple attempted murder cases that transpired on July 12, 2019, in Guinabsan, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte; on August 18, 2016, in Sitio, Bulok, Upper Olave, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte; on April 9, 2016, in Sitio, Tagbulacao, Lower, Olave, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte; on May 11, 2019, in Purok 3, Sitio Matina, Nongnong, Butuan City; and on March 14, 2016, in Upper Olave, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte by conspiring in the ambush of troops of the 23rd Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army.

Both suspects were also involved in the attack on the members of the Butuan City Mobile Force Company while conducting combat operations in Sitio Mabuhay, Barangay MJ Santos, Butuan City on March 14, 2020.

They are the prime suspects in murder cases that took place in Barangay Nongnong, Butuan City on April 13, 2016 that victimized a certain Rodrigo P. Domoso and in Lower Olave, Buenavista on April 21, 2020 that killed a resident.

The NPA leaders were arrested by the combined forces of the intelligence unit of PRO-13, the Buenavista municipal police, the Agusan del Norte police, and the 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company of Agusan del Norte.

“The arrest of these two topmost wanted CTG personalities only proves the dedication and commitment of Caraga cops to free the region from the threats posed by the terrorist group,” Labra said.

Meanwhile, in a separate statement on Thursday, the Surigao del Norte Police Provincial Office (SDNPPO) also reported the arrest of two NPA members on Wednesday.

Isagani Hubasan, alias Sado, 53, a resident of Cantugas, Mainit, Surigao del Norte, and a member of the Milisya ng Bayan under the Sandatahang Yunit Pampropaganda (SYP) 16B of Guerrilla Front 16 (GF-16), North Eastern Mindanao Regional Command (NEMRC) was arrested while being confined in a hospital in Surigao City.


Hublasan has a standing arrest warrant for attempted murder issued by the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 32 in Surigao del Norte issued on Nov. 16, 2022.

The SDNPPO also reported the arrest of Johnny Parcia, 41, the active Vice Team leader of SYP section C of GF 16, NEMRC in Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte on Tuesday.

Parcia has a standing arrest warrant for multiple frustrated murder issued by RTC Branch 32 on May 17, 2022.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190343

'Tired' Moro extremists yield to Army in Maguindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 8, 2022): 'Tired' Moro extremists yield to Army in Maguindanao (By Edwin Fernandez)



SURRENDER. Four Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) surrender Wednesday afternoon (Dec. 7, 2022) to the Army's 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade (1MIB) in Barangay Kalandagan, Tacurong City. Brig. Gen. Pedro Balisi, 1MIB chief (3rd from left), welcomed the surrenderers, who belonged to the BIFF's Kagi Karialan faction. (Photo courtesy of 6ID)

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – Amid the intensified military operations against local terrorist groups in Maguindanao del Sur, four Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) decided to lay down their firearms Wednesday afternoon.

In a statement Thursday. Brig. Gen. Pedro Balisi Jr., 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade commander said the four BIFF surrenderers belonged to the group's Kagi Karialan Faction.


Balisi said the provincial government has committed to provide livelihood support to former violent extremists, as well as their enrollment in the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program.

“Exhaustion, hunger and continuously evading military forces running after them forced them to surrender. They also realized that their struggle was senseless and opted to live normal lives with their families,” Balisi said.

“Basically, our focused military operations made them decide to yield with their firearms,” he said, adding that they turned over a mortar launcher and various firearms.

Maj. Gen. Roy Galido, 6th Infantry Division (ID) chief, lauded the former BIFF members for choosing to return to mainstream society.

“I know you were victims of deception and misinformation, thank you for laying down your guns and let us all help each other in building peace in this promised land,” said Galido, who is the Joint Task Force Central head.

Since January this year, 201 BIFF have surrendered within the 6ID area of operations.

Some 239 assorted firearms and explosives were either confiscated or surrendered to the 6ID.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190357

NPA rebel tagged as ‘urban operator’ yields in Zambo Norte

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 8, 2022): NPA rebel tagged as ‘urban operator’ yields in Zambo Norte (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)



‘URBAN OPERATOR’. Ruel Boralo, 44, an alleged urban operator of the New People's Army (right), surrenders to police authorities Thursday (Dec. 8, 2022) in Leon Postigo, Zamboanga del Norte. Personnel of the Zamboanga del Norte Police Provincial Office and the Army's 5th Special Forces Battalion facilitated his surrender. (Photo courtesy of Area Police Command-Western Mindanao)

ZAMBOANGA CITY – A New People’s Army (NPA) rebel allegedly involved in urban operations in Zamboanga del Norte turned himself in to reunite with his family, a top police official said Thursday.

Col. Richard Verceles, operations chief of the Area Police Command-Western Mindanao, described Ruel Boralo, 44, as an "NPA urban operator."

Boralo surrendered to policemen around 10 a.m. Thursday in the Zamboanga del Norte town of Leon Postigo.


Verceles said Boralo's surrender was facilitated by personnel of the Zamboanga del Norte Police Provincial office and Army's 5th Special Force Battalion.

According to Verceles, Boralo is a council member under Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas-Western Mindanao Region, Regional Urban Committee of the NPA’s Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee.

Boralo is the brother-in-law of the late Loreto Dagpin, former vice commanding officer of the dismantled Main Regional Guerrilla Unit of the NPA’s WMRPC.

Dagpin and another NPA leader, Rolando Maglasang, were killed in a clash with government forces in May year.


Verceles said Boralo received an initial aid package after being released to the custody of village leaders in Barangay Santa Maria, Leon Postigo.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190379

Naval Forces Western Mindanao gets missile-capable gunboat

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 9, 2022): Naval Forces Western Mindanao gets missile-capable gunboat (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)



MISSILE CAPABLE. The Philippine Navy deploys one of its two newly acquired missile-capable patrol gunboats to the area of responsibility of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM), boosting the capability of the NFWM in its campaign against cross-border terrorism and kidnapping. The new gunboat, BRP-Nestor Acero, arrived Thursday (Dec. 8, 2022) at the Naval Station Romulo Espaldon which houses the NFWM headquarters in Zamboanga City. (Photo courtesy of NFWM)

ZAMBOANGA CITY – The Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM) got a boost in its capability against terrorism and kidnapping with the deployment of a missile-capable gunboat on the country’s southern border.

In a statement Friday, Lt. Senior Grade Chester Ross Cabaltera, NFWM information officer, said the Philippine Navy (PN) has deployed one of the two newly-acquired missile capable gunboats, BRP-Nestor Acero (PG901), to the NFWM area of responsibility.

Capt. Dwight Steven Dulnoan, NFWM acting commander, rendered an arrival ceremony for PG901 and its crew Thursday at Ensign Majini Pier of the Naval Station Romulo Espaldon, which houses the NFWM headquarters here.

PG901, one of two PN’s Acero-class patrol gunboats, is a missile-capable Shaldag Mk. V Fast Attack Interdiction Craft Missile (FAIC-M).


Cabaltera said the 32-meter high-speed vessel is equipped with quick intercept ability, remote stabilized weapons, and short-range missiles that are capable to deliver precision strikes against larger hostiles and high-value targets on land or sea.

BRP-Nestor Acero will augment the existing NFWM fleet guarding cross-border terrorism, kidnapping, and other crimes in the southern seas.

The PN’s two Acero-class gunboats are named after Philippine Marine Corps heroes and Medal for Valor recipients, the late Pfc. Nestor F. Acero, and the late 1Lt. Lolinato G. To-ong.

The two gunboats are part of the nine FAICS-M acquired by the Philippines from Israel for PHP10 billion.

The acquisition of the FAICS-M are among the 2019 projects approved by former President Rodrigo Duterte under the Horizon 2 List of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190412

Surigao Sur cops nab wanted NPA officer in Bulacan

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 9, 2022): Surigao Sur cops nab wanted NPA officer in Bulacan (By Alexander Lopez)



ARRESTED NPA LEADER. The Surigao del Sur Police reports the arrest of Ronald Galdiano, alias Rolando Enriquez, the commanding officer of the Weakened New People’s Army Guerrilla Front 19, Sub-Regional Committee Southland, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee, during a police operation in Barangay Guinhawa, Malolos City, Bulacan on Thursday (Dec. 8, 2022). The suspect has arrest warrants for three counts of murder issued by the local court in Lianga, Surigao del Sur. (Photo courtesy of SDSPPO)

BUTUAN CITY – Police operatives have arrested a top communist New People’s Army commanding officer (CO) wanted in Surigao del Sur in the city of Malolos, Bulacan province, an official said Friday.

In a statement, Col. Dennis Siruno, the Surigao del Sur provincial police director, identified the arrested NPA leader as Ronald Galdiano, alias Rolando Enriquez, a native of Lianga, Surigao del Sur.

Galdiasno, 39, was arrested in Barangay Guinhawa, Malolos City on Thursday. He was found to be residing in Barangay Sta. Cruz, Sta. Maria, Bulacan at the time of his arrest.


A joint operation conducted by police personnel from Lianga and the Malolos City police station led to his arrest.

Galdiano is allegedly the CO of the Weakened NPA Guerrilla Front 19, Sub-Regional Committee Southland, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee.

The suspect has standing arrest warrants for three counts of murder issued by the Regional Trial Court Branch 28 in Lianga town on Feb. 23, 2021.

“Galdiano is listed as an NPA priority target, and as the sixth most wanted person in the Caraga region,” Siruno said.

He commended the Lianga and Malolos City police personnel for the successful mission.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190436

9 killed, 5 wounded in North Cotabato clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 10, 2022): 9 killed, 5 wounded in North Cotabato clash (By Edwin Fernandez)



Aleosan, North Cotabato (Wikimap)

ALEOSAN, North Cotabato – A militiaman was killed in an ambush while eight others also died in the succeeding firefight in Barangay Tapudoc here on Friday afternoon.

Maj. Jennefer Amotan, the police chief of this town, said Saturday that prior to the firefight, lawless elements killed in an ambush Ramel Santillan, a member of the Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU), around 2:30 p.m.


Santillan, 22, was driving his motorcycle on his way to the Tapudoc CAFGU detachment when ambushed.

The militiamen on duty, upon hearing the gunfire, rushed to the scene and found Santillan on a dirt road.

The militiamen clashed against some 50 gunmen as they pursued Santillan’s attackers that resulted in the death of five CAFGU members and three lawless elements.

Four militiamen and one on the enemy side were also wounded in the firefight that lasted for more than two hours.


The police identified the slain CAFGU members as Jomar Roben, Jesry Galo, Melvin Cabrerra, Moises Galo, and Johnrey Cabrerra, while Ariel Wacan, Gibel Galo, Harison Galo, and Dante Boboy were wounded.

On the other side, the fatalities were Pikal Taya, Taher Odin, and Sammy Ayunan. A certain Tikoy Piang sustained injuries.

Col. Donald Gumiran, commander of the Army’s 602nd Infantry Brigade, said in a statement that troops from the 90th Infantry Battalion are backing up the police for a manhunt operation against the other members of the lawless group said to be operating in the mountains of this town and nearby Pikit.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190473