CPP/NPA-Central Negros: Pagmasaker sang 94th IB sa Pamilya Fausto sa Himamaylan City, Ginakondenar sang LPC-NPA

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Jun 20, 2023): Pagmasaker sang 94th IB sa Pamilya Fausto sa Himamaylan City, Ginakondenar sang LPC-NPA (Massacre of the Fausto Family by the 94th IB in Himamaylan City, Condemned by the LPC-NPA)

 


JB Regalado

Spokesperson

NPA-Central Negros (Leonardo Panaligan Command)

Negros Island Regional Operational Command (Apolinario Gatmaitan Command)

New People's Army

June 20, 2023

Mabaskog nga ginakondenar sang Leonardo Panaligan Command-New People’s Army (LPC-NPA) ang makasiligni nga pagmasaker sang berdugo kag pasistang 94th Infantry Battalion (IB) sa pobre kag makaluluoy nga pamilya Fausto sa Sityo Kangkiling, Brgy. Buenavista, Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental sadtong Hunyo 14, alas 10:00 sang gab-i.

Wala kaluoy nga ginpaarakan sang armas luthang sang uhaw sa dugo nga tropa sang 94th IB ang nasambit nga puluy-an sang pamilya Fausto samtang mahamuok nga nagakatulog ang bug-os nga pamilya. Suno sa report, apat tanan nga myembro sang pamilya nga sanday Rolly, 52 anyos (amay) kag Emilda Fausto, 49 anyos (iloy) lakip na ang duha ka menor de edad nga mga kabataan sang mag-asawa nga sanday Ben kag Raben, 15 kag 11 anyos.

Ang pamilya Fausto lehitimo nga katapo sang BABICAFA (Baklayan, Bito, Cabagal Farmers Association). Isa ka lokal nga asosasyon nga nagahatag sang nagakaigo nga serbisyo sa mga mangunguma kag bug-os nga pumuluyo sa lugar. Ang BABICAFA ang rehistrado nga organisasyon sang mangunguma kag nangin biktima man sang red tagging sang Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP) kag National Task Force (NTF)-Elcac kag ginapasibangdan nga mga supporter sang NPA.

Wala sa listahan sang NPA sa isla nga intel asset sang militar ang amay nga si Rolly Fausto. Wala man sang kriminal nga record ang pamilya Fausto kag labaw sa tanan wala sang utang nga dugo sa pumuluyo ang nasambit nga pamilya.

Wala huya kag illogical ang mga palayag ni 94th IB Commander Lt. Col. Van Donald Almonte kag 303rd Bde PA CO BGen. Orlando Edralin kakunsabo ang mga kapulisan sang Himamaylan City nga ginapahid sa NPA ang ini nga makasiligni nga kalakasan. Lunsay fabricated kag linubid nga mga kabutigan kag paghinabon lamang sang pasistang AFP partikular na ang 94th IB sa ila mga kapalpakan sa pagdugmok sang rebolusyonaryong kahublagan sa isla.

Wala sang iban nga nagahingabot kag nagapahug sa pamilya Fausto luwas lang sang pasista kag berdugo nga 94th IB kag 303rd Brigade.

Indi ini bag-o nga hitabo sa isla nga ang may kahimuan ang AFP. Isa na diri ang pagmasaker sang 11th IB sa pamilya Calago sa Brgy. Tacpao, Guihulngan City sadtong tuig 2015. Ginpaarakan sang armas luthang sang mga naga-operasyon nga tropa sang 11th IBPA ang puluy-an sang nasambit nga pamilya kag wala kaluoy nga ginsunog ang puluy-an kag buhi nga lawas sang mag-asawa nga Calago. Patay si Brgy. Kagawad Enric Calago kag asawa sini nga si BHW Rosalie Calago nga lunsay mga opisyal sang barangay. Ang pamilya Calago mga aktibo nga katapo sang Kahugpongan para sa Ugma sa Gagmay’ng Mag-uuma sa Oriental Negros (KAUGMAON)-Guihulngan Chapter. Lehitimo kag rehistrado sa Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) nga organisasyon sang mga mangunguma nga nagahatag sang serbisyo-sosyal sa mga mangunguma kag iban pa nga sektor sa nasambit nga syudad.

Ang LPC-NPA naga-upod gid sa kasubo sang pamilya Fausto upod sa mga biktima sang paglapas sang tawhanon nga kinamatarung kag nagahimakas nga pumuluyo sa pag-angkon sang matuod nga hustisya sosyal kag demokratikong interes.

Ginapanawagan man sa tanan nga mga katapo sang 94th IB, mga CAFGU kag bug-os nga tropa sang AFP nga indi na makatulon kag indi makabatas sa ginahimo nga mga kalakasan sang pasistang militar sa mga inosenteng sibilyan kag bug-os nga pumuluyo sa kaumahan. Sikreto nga magdangup sa mga yunit sang NPA malapit sa inyo lugar agud maghatag sang nagakaigo kag matuod nga impormasyon. Bukas ang NPA kag bug-os nga rebolusyonaryong kahublagan sa pag-akomodar sa inyo matarung nga katuyuan.

Ginamando man sa tanan nga yunit sang NPA sa Central Negros nga maglunsar sang malapnagon nga taktikal nga opensiba sa paghatag sang nagakaigo nga hustisya sa mga biktima sang pasismo sang estado ilabi na ang pagpamintas sang AFP, PNP, NTF-Elcac kag iban pa nga may utang nga dugo sa rebolusyon.###

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/pagmasaker-sang-94th-ib-sa-pamilya-fausto-sa-himamaylan-city-ginakondenar-sang-lpc-npa/

CPP/NDF-Executive Committee: Immortalize Comrade Anand: Revolutionary Leader and Teacher of the International Proletarian Struggle!

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Jun 20, 2023): Immortalize Comrade Anand: Revolutionary Leader and Teacher of the International Proletarian Struggle!

 


National Executive Committee

National Democratic Front of the Philippines

June 20, 2023

June 15, 2023 | The National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) joins the international proletarian movement in paying the highest tribute to Katakam “Comrade Anand” Sudarshan. Comrade Anand was a leading cadre of the Communist Party of India (Maoist), member of the Politburo of CPI(Maoist) Central Committee and is considered one of the most important guiding figures of India’s struggle for national and social liberation.

Comrade Anand was a teacher before he joined the Naxal movement in the 1970s. His unwavering service to the Indian revolution spanned five decades. He was one of the pioneering leaders in expanding the armed revolution in the Dandakaranya area. Comrade Anand became known for his strong command of guerilla warfare which dealt heavy blows against Indian security forces.

As Secretary of the Central Regional Bureau for almost two decades, and as a leading figure of their revolutionary magazine People’s March, he helped the Indian revolutionary struggle gain global recognition and prominence.

Comrade Anand’s passing is weightier than Mount Tai. The NDFP and the entire Philippine revolutionary movement take inspiration from his victories and enduring lessons in the struggle against imperialism and all reaction. The continuous advance of India’s revolution is a testament to his legacy as a revolutionary leader, an ingenious guerilla commander, and a great teacher of the international proletarian struggle.

Long live Comrade Anand!
Long live the Communist Party of India (Maoist)!
Long live the International Proletarian Struggle!

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/immortalize-comrade-anand-revolutionary-leader-and-teacher-of-the-international-proletarian-struggle/

WESTMINCOM: Military troops recover war materials in Maguindanao del Sur

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Jun 20. 2023): Military troops recover war materials in Maguindanao del Sur

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – June 20, 2023

While conducting security patrol along the marshy area, operating troops of Joint Task Force Central recovered war materials used in fabricating rifles and other crew-served weapons at an abandoned nipa house in Barangay Elian, Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Maguindanao del Sur, on Saturday, June 17, 2023.
Troops immediately secured the area and recovered all the war materials, which allegedly belong to the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters – Karialan Faction.

 
Joint Task Force Central Commander, Maj. Gen. Alex Rillera attributed this success to the informants whose timely information led to the recovery of the war materials.

 
Recovered war materials were deposited at the 92nd Infantry Battalion supply room for technical inspection and safekeeping.

 
Investigation is underway for the identification and appropriate filing of charges against the owner of the war materials.

Western Mindanao Command Chief, Lt. Gen. Roy Galido, commended the efforts of the troops of Joint Task Force Central to free the communities from tools of violence.

 
“Rest assured that Team WestMinCom will not stop until our area of operation is free from adversities,” Lt. Gen. Galido stated.

 
###
#SupportOurTroops
#SundaloSalamatsaSerbisyo
#AFPyoucanTRUST
#TeamAFP
#TeamWestMinCom
#WholeofNationApproach
1st Infantry "Tabak" Division, Philippine Army
6th Infantry "Kampilan" Division, Philippine Army
Alakdan Division
Naval Forces Western Mindanao
JTF Zamboanga
603rd Infantry - Persuader Brigade
602nd "Liberator" Brigade
54th Engineer "Sarangay" Brigade, PA
Red Shield
Jtf Tawi Tawi Indomalphi
Jtf Basilan

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=281155434583838&set=pcb.281156074583774

https://www.facebook.com/westmincomafp2021/

WESCOM: LOOK | WESCOM Chief Vice Admiral Alberto B Carlos welcomes Navy Captain Oliver Obongen, skipper of BRP Tarlac (LD601), and Marine Colonel Al Canson, commanding officer of MBLT 9, to Palawan

Posted to Western Command (WESCOM) Facebook Page (Jun 19, 2023): LOOK | WESCOM Chief Vice Admiral Alberto B Carlos welcomes Navy Captain Oliver Obongen, skipper of BRP Tarlac (LD601), and Marine Colonel Al Canson, commanding officer of MBLT 9, to Palawan

LOOK | WESCOM Chief Vice Admiral Alberto B Carlos welcomes Navy Captain Oliver Obongen, skipper of BRP Tarlac (LD601), and Marine Colonel Al Canson, commanding officer of Marine Battalion Landing Team 9, to Palawan. The sailors of LD601 and the marines of MBLT9 arrived in Puerto Princesa City on June 17, 2023 as additional defenders and patriots of the West Philippine Sea.

#AFPyoucanTRUST
#TeamWESCOM
#missionfirstmenalways
#transformationroadmap

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=644930334335931&set=pcb.644930397669258

https://www.facebook.com/wescom/

PNP declares Himamaylan massacre breakthrough

From the Visayan Daily Star (Jun 21, 2023): PNP declares Himamaylan massacre breakthrough (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

The police yesterday declared a breakthrough in their investigations into the massacre of four family members in rebel infested Sitio Kangkiling, Brgy. Buenavista, Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental on June 14.

PCapt. Judesses Catalogo, spokesperson of the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office, yesterday said they have an eyewitness of the gruesome murder incidents, and other witnesses have volunteered information to police investigators.

Catalogo said the witnesses have already been relocated to ensure their safety.

Initial investigations of the Himamaylan police disclosed that about 15 armed men were involved in the commission of the crime.

Catalogo, however said they have yet to confirm the reported involvement of the New People’s Army, although it is among the angles being pursued in their investigations.

On June 14, Rolly Fausto, his wife, Imelda, and their two minor sons, aged 11 and 15 years old, were summarily executed in Sitio Kangkiling, Brgy. Buenavista, Himamaylan City, as on the same day, armed men believed to be NPA members also burned two heavy equipment in neighboring Sitio Bulod, Brgy, Carabalalan in the city.

According to the investigation of the Himamaylan City police, witnesses revealed that the armed suspects shouted “Mabuhay ang NPA, Mabuhay ang Hukbo. Tanan nga traidor patyon (Long live the NPA, Long Live the Army. All the traitors must be killed),” after the shooting incident.

Pinning the blame on the NPA is an old and tired tactic the AFP uses to escape accountability for its crimes against the people, Coni Ledesma, head of the National Democratic Front Special Office for the Protection of Children, said in a statement.

Catalogo said the testimonies of witnesses will determine the suspects involved in the heinous crimes. Hopefully, we will be able to convince more witnesses to give full accounts into the commission of the crime, to support testimonies of other witnesses, some of whom have appeared to be hesitant in disclosing more information, due to security concerns.

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) in Negros Occidental has started collecting documents and statements on the brutal killing of the Fausto family, yesterday disclosed Vincent Para, head of the CHR sub regional office in Bacolod City.

Para said they have requested the Himamaylan City Police Station for copies of the investigation report, spot report and crime scene pictures.

https://visayandailystar.com/pnp-declares-himamaylan-massacre-breakthrough/

‘Non-monetary benefits’ for soldiers, families continue

From the Mindanao Examiner (Jun 20, 22023): ‘Non-monetary benefits’ for soldiers, families continue

MANILA – Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro said the non-monetary benefits that the government provides soldiers and their families would entice them to stay longer and wait for their mandatory retirement from the military service.

He noted that these non-monetary benefits such as healthcare service and skills upgrading initiatives in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) would serve as prime consideration for enlisted personnel not to retire early.

“I mean, it’s a matter of getting an amount now, without the continuing non-monetary benefits that you will enjoy in your career path, in your career pattern. Kung magi-invest nga tayo sa skills upgrading, sa healthcare, hindi lamang ng ating kasundaluhan, kung hindi pamilya, and other non-monetary opportunities, palagay ko, maiiwan sila,” Teodoro said.

He made the statement following reports of possible exodus of enlisted personnel from the military organization because of the looming reforms in the military and uniformed personnel (MUP) pension system.

“At lalo na kung makikita nila na ang sakripisyo nating lahat ay magiging (para) sa kabutihan ng lahat. Kasi, okay, huwag nating sulbahin ang problema, alright. Anong mangyayari? Magkakaroon tayo ng mas malaking deficit, magkakaroon ng inflation, bababa ang balor ng ating pera, tataas ang bilihin,” Gilberto pointed out.

“So, I think it’s a matter of explaining the necessity of introducing. Sa aking palagay, dahil galing din naman ako sa financial sector, hindi naman biglaang mangyayari ito, mababawasan lamang ang dapat na pagdurugo. ‘Ika nga ng ating gobyerno hanggang sa ma-self sustain na itong sistema na ito,” he added.

Last March, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. approved the MUP pension reform aimed at fixing the pension system and addressing future fiscal uncertainty.

Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno Jr. said the pension being received by a military pensioner is nine times higher than the average pension of a pensioner under the Social Security System and three times higher than the average pension under the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS).

“So we want to reform them. And right now, the situation is so bleak, for example, that if you compare the current operating expenditures with maintenance and operating expenditures or maintenance and operating expenditures of the whole AFP and the capital outlays so the money they buy for airplanes, etc., it is actually much less than the amount of pension that we are allocating for the retirees. So there will come a time when the current budget will only be about a third, one-third, or one-fourth of the money that we’re paying for the pensioners. So we have to really address that issue. It’s not sustainable,” he said.

Diokno said the proposals for the pension reform include application of the reform to all active personnel and new entrants, removal of automatic indexation of pension to the salary of active personnel of single ranks, and mandatory contributions to be required for active personnel and new entrants similar to the GSIS pensioners. (Mindanao Examiner)

https://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2023/06/non-monetary-benefits-for-soldiers.html

Indo-Pacific nations bolster defense ties, capabilities

Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (Jun 20, 2023): Indo-Pacific nations bolster defense ties, capabilities

NATIONS in the Indo-Pacific want a continued strong U.S. presence and they are increasing their military capabilities and improving interoperability and training with U.S. and regional partners, said Ely Ratner, the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Indo-Pacific Security Affairs.

Ratner discussed “Building a Networked Security Architecture in the Indo-Pacific” at the Center for a New American Security National Security Conference on “American Power and Purpose.” While continued support of Ukraine is vital to regional security, the Indo-Pacific remains the No. 1 priority, as China is the Defense Department's pacing challenge, he said.

Ratner outlined some of the Indo-Pacific partnerships.

Philippines

Remarkable progress has taken place over the last year or so, with the agreement for access to 14 Philippine bases which will host rotational U.S. forces, he said.

These bases will provide an ability for the U.S. to respond to a number of regional contingencies, including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, he said.

The department is also working with the Philippines on a new security assistance roadmap to try to help them develop some of the asymmetric capabilities that will be most important for the types of challenges that they're facing, particularly around their maritime periphery, Ratner said.

“It's no secret that China's assertiveness and coercion has really underscored the importance of working together to strive toward that outcome in the context of the Philippines,” he said, the outcome referring to the shared vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific.

“We are conceiving of the Philippines as one of our most important alliances in the region. The Philippines-U.S. alliance is now rising to be on par with those other major alliances in the region. It's something we're very invested in,” he said.

Japan

Japan is putting unprecedented resources into boosting its military capability, according to Ratner.

The U.S. and Japan are increasing the number of exercises, he said, particularly in the vicinity of the first island chain which runs from northern Japan to the Philippines. More importantly, Japan is increasing cooperation with South Korea, Ratner said, mentioning the two nations sharing early warning data of North Korean missile launches as one example.

India

The U.S.-India relationship is seeing an increasing strategic alignment, Ratner said, adding the department supports New Delhi's military modernization and co-development and -production of the U.S. defense industrial base with India's.

The department also welcomes India's participation in multinational exercises in the region, he said. "A stronger India that can defend its own interests, and defend its own sovereignty is good for the United States," he said. (David Vergun)

https://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2023/06/indo-pacific-nations-bolster-defense.html

Transfer of BARMM govt seat approved

From the Manila Times (Jun 21, 2023): Transfer of BARMM govt seat approved (By Aric John Sy Cua)

THE Parliament of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) has approved Bill 43 in its third and final reading, which will see a change in government seats in the region.

A statement by the Bangsamoro Parliament said that the bill, known as the Seat of Government Act of 2023, will authorize the seat of government to be moved from Cotabato City to Parang in Maguindanao del Norte.

Members of Parliament on Monday voted in favor of the measure, with 47 affirmative votes, zero negative and six abstentions.

"The new government center will house the offices of the Wali (ceremonial head) and the Chief Minister, the Bangsamoro Parliament, as well as BARMM ministries, offices, and agencies," the statement explained.

Parliamentary floor leader Sha Elijah Dumama-Alba said she was confident that all constituencies within the Bangsamoro region will benefit upon the bill's enactment and even highlighted the "potential" for new opportunities to arise because of it.

The new choice of Parang was the top choice among several competing locations, with Cotabato City, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Sultan Kudarat and Sultan Mastura as the other choices.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2023/06/21/regions/transfer-of-barmm-govt-seat-approved/1897018

AFP gets P3.31B from BCDA

From the Manila Times (Jun 21, 2023): AFP gets P3.31B from BCDA (By Jerry M. Hernandez and Frederick Silverio)

The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has remitted P3.31 billion to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) this year as a contribution to the military's modernization efforts.

In a statement, BCDA acting president and chief executive officer Joshua Bingcang noted that the figure represents a major share of its disposition proceeds as proof of commitment to help strengthen the country's armed forces.

He said BCDA recognizes the AFP as the agency's major stakeholder and has always ensured that the military receives the biggest chunk from their gross disposition income every year.

"Our consistent contribution to the military is possible through great efforts to sustain our robust financial standing, bolstered by excellent collection efforts and sound management," Bingcang added.

Although considered a huge amount of support, this year's BCDA contributions declined by 54 percent compared to last year's level of P7.21 billion due to the delay in the clearing and turnover to the developer of a portion of the Bonifacio South Pointe property caused by the pandemic.

Nevertheless, the BCDA's cumulative contributions to the AFP amounted to P59.71 billion since its creation in 1992, accounting for 44.34 percent of the P134.66 billion disposition proceeds as of end-2022.

Pursuant to its mandate under Republic Act 7227, or the "Bases Conversion and Development Act," the BCDA generates income from the sale, lease, or joint venture arrangements with private sector partners in former military camps in Metro Manila.

These proceeds are remitted to the Bureau of the Treasury every year, which are then allocated and distributed by the Department of Budget and Management to the AFP and other beneficiary agencies.

Aside from the AFP, other beneficiary agencies also received P235.08 million in contributions from the BCDA, including the National Housing Authority, National Home Mortgage Finance Corp., Home Insurance Guaranty Corp., Department of Public Works and Highways, Department of Transportation, Philippine Health Insurance Corp., Department of Science and Technology, Department of Social Welfare and Development, and Department of Labor and Employment, among others.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2023/06/21/regions/afp-gets-p331b-from-bcda/1897017

Maintaining peace in Mindanao important to whole Asia-Pacific, says Australian official

From Rappler (Jun 20, 2023): Maintaining peace in Mindanao important to whole Asia-Pacific, says Australian official (By JAMES PATRICK CRUZ)

'A peaceful Mindanao is fundamentally important, not just to the Philippines but the entire region,' says Australian Embassy in Manila First Secretary Political Simon Hayter

MANILA, Philippines – An official of the Australian embassy in Manila stressed the significance of maintaining peace in Mindanao, saying the situation in the southern Philippines also affected the Asia-Pacific region.

“A peaceful Mindanao is fundamentally important, not just to the Philippines but the entire region,” said Simon Hayter, first secretary political at the Australian embassy in Manila on Tuesday, June 20, during the roundtable discussion of local governments from Bangsamoro on social cohesion and resilience.

Australia’s annual aid program to the Philippines is worth around P3 billion. A huge chunk of this goes to Mindanao’s peace process, health and education, and economic development, Hayter said.

“Australia seeks its security within the region. We support a peaceful, stable, and prosperous region. As part of that, we seek to help the Philippines in establishing a peaceful and stable Mindanao,” Hayter said.

According to the International Crisis Group, powerful clans in the Bangsamoro pose a major stumbling block to achieving long-term peace in the Muslim-majority region.

Apart from providing social support to the Philippines, Australia has been forging a strong alliance with the country in terms of defense and security.

Last February, defense officials of the Philippines and Australia discussed the possibility of conducting joint patrols in the South China Sea.

The vast South China Sea, a waterway vital to global trade, has become a major flashpoint with different overlapping claims of territory.

During the 2023 Balikatan exercise of the US and the Philippines last April, at least 100 Australian Defense Forces participated.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/mindanao/maintaining-peace-mindanao-important-whole-asia-pacific-says-australian-official/

Female NPA rebel killed in Bukidnon clash

From the Sun Star-Cagayan de Oro (Jun 20, 2023): Female NPA rebel killed in Bukidnon clash (By JO ANN SABLAD)

BUKIDNON. The 8th Infantry Battalion recovered several firearms following a clash between the Philippine Army's 8th Infantry Battalion and the rebel group in Malaybalay, City, Bukidnon last Saturday, June 17, 2023. (Photo from 4th Infantry Division)

AN UNIDENTIFIED female member of the New People's Army (NPA) was killed during a clash between the Philippine Army's 8th Infantry Battalion and the rebel group in Malaybalay, City, Bukidnon on Saturday, June 17, 2023.

In a statement, the military said that they received reports from concerned citizens in the vicinity of Barangay Kalasungay stating that "fully armed men" believed to be NPA rebels are foraging and extorting money from the neighborhood in Sitio Malinao.

The female rebel was killed during a 10-minute firefight around 5:26 a.m. Saturday.

Troops recovered one AK47 Rifle, one M14 Rifle, one Improvised Explosive Device, one roll of detonating cord, two blasting caps, and other various war paraphernalia.

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1964500/cagayan-de-oro/local-news/female-npa-rebel-killed-in-bukidnon-clash

Rights commission starts Himamaylan massacre probe

From Panay News (Jun 21, 2023): Rights commission starts Himamaylan massacre probe (By DOMINIQUE GABRIEL G. BAÑAGA)

BACOLOD City – The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has started its independent investigation of the Fausto family massacre in Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental.

It will take more than 100 days or around six months to complete, according to CHR-Negros Occidental head Vincent Parra, after which the results will be submitted to CHR-Western Visayas for resolution.

Parra said they have a pending request to the Himamaylan City police for documents regarding their own probe into the crime.

Initial investigation revealed that the father, Rolly Fausto, was a military informant and involved in facilitating the surrender of New People’s Army (NPA) rebels.

The CHR said there were also claims that linked the killings to the Philippine Army.

“All possible angles will be pursued in the course of CHR’s independent investigation,” it said in a statement.

It added: “Any instance to arbitrarily deprive a person of their life, moreso if vulnerable sectors are involved, should be faced with the full force of the law. We hope witnesses also surface [and help in] the resolution of this case and in defense of human rights.”

On June 14, Rolly, his wife Emilda and their two sons, 11-year-old Ben and 15-year-old Raben, were gunned down by still unidentified assailants at their house in Sitio Kangkiling, Barangay Buenavista.

Barangay Buenavista in Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental is one of several NPA-influenced areas in central Negros where clashes that claimed the lives of several communist rebels and government troops have taken place in recent years. (With a report from inquirer.net)/

https://www.panaynews.net/rights-commission-starts-himamaylan-massacre-probe/

No imminent threat in Metro Manila after death of alleged BIFF members

From CNN Philippines (Jun 20, 2023): No imminent threat in Metro Manila after death of alleged BIFF members (By CNN Philippines Staff)

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, June 20) — The police force has not monitored any imminent threat in Metro Manila following the recent deaths of a high-profile suspect and six other alleged members of the extremist group Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Maguindanao Del Sur.

MGen. Edgar Okubo, chief of the National Capital Region Regional Police Office (NCRPO), said they are conducting intelligence monitoring and they do not see any threat spilling over to Metro Manila.

"Medyo mahihirapan sila mag-transgress dito especially we are preparing and gearing up with the SONA," said Okubo, referring to the BIFF. "Mas humihigpit pa yung security deployment natin until and after the celebration natin of the SONA. We are also checking intelligence reports, intelligence fusions at wala naman kaming nakitang spillover ng threat na papasok sa National Capital Region."

[Translation: They will have a hard time transgressing here, especially since we are preparing for the SONA, where security is tighter. We are not seeing any spillover of threat to NCR.]

The PNP on Tuesday said its personnel implemented a search warrant in the residence of Nasser Yossef M. Hussain alias Tutin Usop, who is said to be a known member of the BIFF-Karialan Faction, in Brgy. Damawato, Datu Paglas on June 18.

It said the operation led to an armed encounter that resulted in deaths of Hussain and other alleged BIFF members Norjihad M. Husain alias Datdat Yusop, Manex Rakim, Moris Madidis, Dela Singkalan, Cocoy P. Pagagungan; and an unidentified cohort.

Special Action Force tropper PCpl Artchen Echavia was also wounded in the encounter and is currently recuperating.

It added a significant number of firearms and ammunition were also seized during the operation.

CNN Philippines correspondent Gerg Cahiles contributed to this report.

https://www.cnnphilippines.com/news/2023/6/20/BIFF-Maguindanao-Metro-Manila-security.html

Troops recover war materials fabricating machine

From the Sun Star-Zamboanga (Jun 20, 2023): Troops recover war materials fabricating machine

OPERATING troops of Joint Task Force (JTF)-Central have recovered a machine used in fabricating rifles and other crew-served weapons in Maguindanao del Sur, a top military official said Tuesday, June 20, 2023.

Major General Alex Rillera, JTF-Central commander, said the fabricating machine was recovered in an abandoned nipa house in Elian village, Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Maguindanao del Sur, on Saturday, June 17.

Rillera said the fabricating machine allegedly belongs to the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters-Karialan Faction.

He attributed the recovery of the fabricating machine to the informants whose timely information led to the recovery of the war-making materials.

The recovered fabricating machine was deposited at the 92nd Infantry Battalion supply room for technical inspection and safekeeping.

Meanwhile, Lieutenant General Roy Galido, commander of the Western Mindanao Command, commended the efforts of the JTF-Central troops to free the communities from tools of violence.

"Rest assured that Team Westmincom will not stop until our area of operation is free from adversities," Galido said.

 
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1964540/zamboanga/local-news/troops-recover-war-materials-fabricating-machine

WesMinCom insists 7 slain in Maguindanao encounter were BIFF fighters

From the Manila Bulletin (Jun 20, 2023): WesMinCom insists 7 slain in Maguindanao encounter were BIFF fighters (By MARTIN SADONGDONG)

The Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCom) stood by its report that the seven individuals slain in an alleged encounter in Maguindanao del Sur over the weekend were members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF).

(Courtesy of Western Mindanao Command)***

A report from the WesMinCom released by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday, June 20, showed that seven suspected members of the BIFF-Karialan Faction died when combined elements of the Joint Task Force (JTF) Central under the AFP WesMinCom and the Philippine National Police’s Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) served two search warrants against siblings Nasser Yussef Hussain alias Tutin Usop and Nurjihad Husain alias Datdat Usop for violation of Republic Act 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.

The incident occurred at the house of the two alleged BIFF members in Barangay Damawato, Datu Paglas, Maguindanao del Sur around 2 a.m. last Sunday, June 18.

“When they were approaching the subject’s residence, an undetermined number of BIFF members fired upon the government forces, which resulted in the wounding of one police personnel,” said Maj. Gen. Alex Rillera, commander of JTF Central.

He added that the troops fired back “which resulted in the death of seven BIFF members, including the two subjects of the search warrants.”

The operation also resulted in the seizure of six firearms and assorted ammunition including one uzi, two M16 rifles, and three caliber .45 pistols.

Lt. Gen. Roy Galido, commander of WesMinCom, commended the troops of JTF Central for the “accomplishment.”

“Our troops will continue to work with other law enforcement agencies to quell terrorism and other criminalities. Our collaborative efforts ensure that terrorism and lawlessness have no place in our area of operation,” Galido stated.

The development came as the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) reportedly claimed that the fatalities were its own members, and not from their breakaway group BIFF.

According to reports, the MILF will file a complaint against the operating troops of the WesMinCom and PNP-CIDG before the Coordinating Committees on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH) for alleged violation of the ceasefire agreement between the MILF and the Philippine government.

The CCCH is a coordinating unit composed of members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and MILF which seeks to ensure that the pact is being observed.

The MILF signed a peace agreement with the Philippine government in 2014 to pave the way for the creation of a new Muslim entity that will have an autonomous government.

This led to the creation of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) in 2019. In return, the MILF disarmed its fighters as a step towards their reintegration to mainstream society.

https://mb.com.ph/2023/6/20/wes-min-com-insists-7-slain-in-maguindanao-encounter-were-biff-fighters

Men killed were Moro Islamic Liberation Front – Iqbal

Posted to the Manila Times (Jun 21, 2023): Men killed were Moro Islamic Liberation Front – Iqbal (By Franz R. Sumangil)

A HIGH-RANKING leader of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front declared on Monday that the seven men killed in a law enforcement operation last Sunday in Datu Paglas town, Maguindanao del Sur were members of the MILF.

Mohagher Iqbal, MILF Peace Implementing Panel chairman, said those killed were legitimate MILF members, refuting the claims of the military that they were members of the Islamic State-linked Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters.

Iqbal said the MILF is preparing to file a complaint against the operating team for allegedly breaching the ceasefire agreement and the terms of reference of the Ad Hoc Joint Action Group (Ahjag).

Ahjag is a cooperative mechanism in the Bangsamoro peace process between the government and the MILF that responds to criminality and terrorism in areas with MILF presence.

Iqbal, also the Minister of Education in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), said that there was no coordination with the MILF for the law enforcement operation.

Meanwhile, Mirinda Madidis Husain said her sons Nasser Yussef Husain and Nurjihad Husain, who were both killed in the joint law enforcement operation, were subordinates of George Kasim, commander of the MILF's Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces National Guard Division.

MILF spokesman Von Alhaq confirmed that Kasim is a top MILF commander and that "most of those killed were known to the MILF."

However, Alhaq did not confirm nor deny if the others who were killed were also MILF members, saying that "an internal investigation is still being conducted by the front."

Seven gunmen were killed and a police officer was injured in an operation in Datu Paglas, Maguindanao del Sur.

BGen. Allan Nobleza, BARMM police director, said Monday the police team involved in the operation was armed with a warrant of arrest against two of the slain suspects.

"The suspects resisted and fired at our lawmen that injured a police officer," Nobleza said.

Emma Husain, wife of Nurjihad Husain, one of the fatalities in the operation, earlier claimed her husband was unarmed and was not a terrorist as the police have claimed.

However, Nobleza said the suspects were involved in the bombing of an electrical transmission tower in Carmen, North Cotabato in 2016 and the Datu Paglas public market attack in 2021.

"They were wanted persons involved in various criminal activities in Maguindanao and North Cotabato provinces," Nobleza said.

Backed by soldiers, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) of Maguindanao del Sur conducted the operation at about 2 a.m. last Sunday against the Husain brothers when a shootout broke out.

Nobleza added that the brothers were killed in the shootout and that the raiding team fired back to defend themselves.

According to CIDG reports, also killed in the encounter were Mamex Karem, Dela Singkala, Morsid Madidis, Jerry Pagugunang, and his brother Punpugay, all of Damawato village in Datu Paglas.

Nobleza said the raiding team seized an M16 rifle, two.45-caliber pistols and ammunition of various calibers from the gunmen.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2023/06/21/regions/men-killed-were-milf-iqbal/1897016

BARMM HR body starts probe of Moro Islamic Liberation Front men’s deaths in gov’t raid

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jun 21, 2023): BARMM HR body starts probe of Moro Islamic Liberation Front men’s deaths in gov’t raid (By: Edwin O. Fernandez)

File photo of BARMM regional headquarters

COTABATO CITY, Maguindanao del Norte, Philippines — The Bangsamoro Human Rights Commission (BHRC) has started an investigation into the death of seven Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) fighters killed during a joint police and military operation in Maguindanao del Sur on June 18.

The BHRC decided on an independent probe “to uncover the truth” even it vowed to closely monitor the investigation to be conducted by competent authorities in the bloody police operation in Datu Paglas town, Maguindanao del Sur.

“As an independent Commission mandated to protect and uphold human rights within the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, we emphasize the utmost importance of conducting a thorough and impartial investigation into this incident,” the human rights body said in a statement Tuesday.

It added: “We are committed to uncovering the truth, ensuring justice is served, and holding accountable those found responsible for any violations of human rights or unlawful actions,” it added.

It also called on all relevant authorities to “ensure a transparent and impartial investigation into this tragic incident.”

In the same breath, the BHRC urged the police and other law enforcement agencies “to continue strengthening their training programs, with a specific focus on human rights education, cultural sensitivity and understanding the teachings of various religions, including Islam” so “we can foster a culture of respect, tolerance, and accountability within our law enforcement institutions.”

No coordination

Seven men were killed during the serving of search warrants against siblings Nasser and Norjihad Husain inside their family’s compound in Barangay Madidis, Datu Paglas.

The brothers were field officers of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, the MILF’s military arm, which was in the process of being decommissioned in keeping with a 2014 peace deal the MILF signed with the government.

Calls for an independent probe and justice to the fallen MILF members mounted as the interim Bangsamoro parliament also called for a fair and impartial probe.

MILF leader Abunawas Maslamama, now a senior minister of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), disclosed on Tuesday that an initial report showed that the police did not coordinate with the MILF during law enforcement operations in its area as prescribed by the ceasefire agreement.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1790930/barmm-hr-body-starts-probe-of-milf-mens-deaths-in-govt-raid

Mandatory citizens service training with optional ROTC pushed

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 20, 2022): Mandatory citizens service training with optional ROTC pushed (By Zaldy De Layola)

File photo

MANILA – Cagayan de Oro City (2nd District) Rep. Rufus Rodriguez on Tuesday reiterated the importance of a bill seeking to establish a mandatory citizen service training for college students, with an “optional” reserve officer training course (ROTC).

The proposal, which is contained in House Bill 6687, has already been approved by the House of Representatives and is now in the Senate.

Rodriguez appealed to senators to also pass the bill that would create a “national citizens service training program (NCSTP)” which includes community service-oriented activities like relief and rescue, and mobilization for disasters and calamities.

He called for Senate approval of the measure after the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) conducted a survey showing that 53 percent of senior high school student-respondents opposed the proposed revival of a school-based military training.

“It is not focused on military enlistment preparation. That is just part of what we envision would be a holistic citizen service training, which would encourage the participation of our youth in civic and public affairs,” he said.

He said the proposed revival of ROTC “answers the country’s need for a citizen force that is ready to be mobilized for all emergencies.”

“In a time when multitude of national and local emergencies and contingents confront our people, whether in the areas of external and territorial defense, internal security and peace and order, and disaster risk reduction and management, we need an updated and well-thought citizen service law,” he said.

To assure that the bill will not violate any international convention and law such as the Convention on the Rights of the Child, the bill does not cover high school students but only all students enrolled in undergraduate degree programs in all public and private Higher Education Institutions and at least 2-year Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs in all Technical Vocational Institutions (TVIs) in the country.

Under the bill, an inter-agency technical panel led by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) shall formulate the NCSTP curriculum.

The CHED and the Department of National Defense (DND) shall design an “optional ROTC” program that includes a five-month officer leadership course.

The CHED and DND, together with the Armed Forces of the Philippines shall establish a separate four-year ROTC baccalaureate degree program.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1203888

Italy seeks to advance defense cooperation with PH

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 20, 2022): Italy seeks to advance defense cooperation with PH (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

PH, ITALY DEFENSE COOPERATION. Italian President Sergio Mattarella with Philippine Ambassador to Italy Nathaniel Imperial on the occasion of the latter’s Presentation of Credentials at the Palazzo del Quirinale on June 15, 2023. (Photo courtesy of Palazzo del Quirinale)

MANILA – Italy seeks to strengthen relations with Manila in the area of defense, especially on the procurement of defense equipment, the Philippine Embassy in Rome said Tuesday.

This was conveyed during the presentation of Philippine Ambassador Nathaniel Imperial’s credentials to Italian President Sergio Mattarella on June 15.

“President Mattarella recognized the growing importance of the Indo-Pacific. He agreed with the significance of the 2016 Arbitral Ruling on freedom of navigation and overflight and regional stability,” the embassy said.

“President Mattarella said that Italy hopes to pursue defense cooperation with the Philippines, particularly on the procurement of defense equipment,” it added.

The Filipino envoy, for his part, said Manila welcomes Italy’s participation in the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines as the country is diversifying its sources of supply of defense equipment.

Asked what Italy can offer, Imperial, said: "We only spoke for 20 minutes so he did not go into detail but Italy has always been considered as a potential supplier of Philippine defense equipment".

During their talk, Imperial also thanked Italy for its support for the G7 Hiroshima Leaders’ Communiqué and the landmark ruling.

READ: Italian Navy patrol ship ‘Morosini’ to make PH port call in July

This coming July, Italian Navy patrol ship Francesco Morosini is expected to make a port visit in Manila as part of Italy’s efforts to increase interaction with the Philippine Navy.

Earlier, Italy’s Defense Attache Maurizio Pitton discussed with the PN future collaborations between Rome and Manila with regard to the “new concept and new generation patrol vessels” that could help the Navy's ongoing modernization efforts.

Imperial also expressed Manila's appreciation for Italy’s hospitality to an estimated 165,000 Filipinos who now call Italy their second home.

Mattarella praised the Filipino community and affirmed that they have integrated well into Italian society.

Both also noted the record-high volume of trade last year at EUR1.24 billion, which surpassed figures prior to the pandemic.

In 2019, two-way trade between Italy and the Philippines amounted to EUR1.09 billion.

Imperial said he hopes to further increase this during his term as Philippine Ambassador to Italy as he also sought to convene "as soon as possible" various bilateral mechanisms with Rome, including on political consultations, to give direction and momentum to the growing ties between the two states.

The two nations celebrated 75 years of bilateral relations on July 9, 2022.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1203932

Economic team, defense chief Teodoro discuss MUP pension reform

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 20, 2022): Economic team, defense chief Teodoro discuss MUP pension reform (By Anna Leah Gonzales)

File photo

MANILA – Members of the economic team have met with Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. to discuss the military and uniformed personnel (MUP) pension reform.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Department of Finance (DOF) said Teodoro referred to the MUP’s contributions to the fund as an engine for national growth provided that the fund is prudently managed.

DOF Undersecretaries Maria Cielo Magno and Maria Luwalhati Dorotan-Tiuseco, National Treasurer Rosalia de Leon, Deputy Treasurer Erwin Sta. Ana, and Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) senior vice president George Ongkeko Jr. on Monday attended the courtesy call in line with their efforts to craft a bill that will guarantee the sustainability of the MUP pension system.

In a Viber message to the Philippine News Agency (PNA), Tiuseco said discussions mostly revolved around the governance structure of the MUP pension fund.

"He wants us to focus on the governance structure. [He wants] expert fund managers with good track record subject to fit and proper rule [to handle the pension fund]," she said.

Tiuseco said Teodoro is amenable to the proposal that the fund will be managed by the GSIS.

"He wants GSIS to handle (it). The structure just has to be very clear," she added.

Under the current proposal, the fund will be managed by the GSIS and an oversight committee shall be formed composed of the Secretary of Finance, the Secretary of Budget and Management, the Executive Secretary, and the President and General Manager of the GSIS as ex-officio members, and representatives from the MUP services.

The economic team is set to continue dialogues with various MUP service representatives on the proposed governance structure to ensure optimal cash flows and proper representation of stakeholders.

To ensure a full understanding of the expected outcomes of the proposed reforms, the economic team will also provide the computations on the net take home pay, as well as the net payout of all retirement options.

The economic team has so far conducted 13 consultation sessions with seven MUP services.

The draft of the proposed bill is expected to be finished in time for the resumption of Congress’ session in July 2023.


https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1203882

Moro Islamic Liberation Front ‘infighting’ leaves 3 dead in Maguindanao Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 20, 2022): Moro Islamic Liberation Front ‘infighting’ leaves 3 dead in Maguindanao Sur (By Edwin Fernandez)

FLEEING THE CLASH SITE. Civilians, mostly women and children, moved to safer areas as Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) fighters start shooting each other on the border of Datu Saudi Ampatuan and Shariff Saydona Mustapha towns in Maguindanao del Sur on Tuesday (June 20, 2023). Initial police reports indicate that at least three MILF fighters were killed so far in the infighting. (Photo courtesy of Abuyusef Satol)

AMPATUAN, Maguindanao Sur – Fighting erupted anew between members of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in remote villages here Tuesday morning with three combatants allegedly killed so far.

“We are still validating this, but initial reports indicated that three (MILF) fighters got killed in the ongoing skirmishes,” said Brig. Gen. Oriel Pangcog, Army’s 601st Infantry Brigade commander based here, said.

Pangcog said the skirmishes started at 9 a.m. in the province’s adjoining barangays of Dapiawan and Pamalian in Datu Saudi Ampatuan and Shariff Saydona Mustapha towns, respectively.

“This infighting, the fourth this year, has sent villagers fleeting to safer grounds, mostly coming from Barangay Dapiawan,” he said.

The skirmishes stems from a long-standing “rido” (family feud) between leaders of the MILF’s 118th and 105th base commands in the area.

Pangcog said reports from the ground disclosed that two of the MILF members killed were from the 118th base command, while one from the 105th base command.

No civilian was hurt so far, he said.

Soldiers backed by armored personnel carriers were sent to Barangay Dapiawan to disengage the warring Moro rebels through diplomatic means.

Sporadic skirmishes and intermittent gunfire are still heard near the two villages as of posting.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1203939

Troops hunt down ASG bomber in Basilan

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 20, 2022): Troops hunt down ASG bomber in Basilan (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

Google map of Basilan Island province.

ISABELA CITY, Basilan – Government troops under the Joint Task Force (JTF)-Basilan are hunting down an Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bomber who fled Sulu province evading a government offensive, a top military official said Tuesday.

Col. Frederick Sales, JTF-Basilan acting commander, identified the target of the manhunt as Mudzirmar “Mundi” Sawadjaan, an alleged bomber and Sulu-based ASG sub-leader.

Sales said Sawadjaan and the group of Basilan-based ASG sub-leader Pasil Bayali have separated a few days after troops overran Bayali’s encampment in Sitio Lobloban, Barangay Guiong, Sumisip town, Sulu on June 3.

“Mundi (Sawadjaan) is on the run,” he said, adding that Sawadjaan fled Sulu together with three other Sulu-based ASG bandits sometime in March this year.

Military reports cited that Bayali was wounded during the June 3 clash, which resulted in the rescue of an Indonesian teenager brought by Sawadjaan to Basilan province from Sulu.

The teenager is the son of the late Indonesian couple Rullie Rian Zeke, 35, and his wife, Ulfah Handayani Saleh, 32. They were tagged as the perpetrators of the January 2019 bombing of the Mount Carmel Cathedral in Jolo, the capital town of Sulu.

“He (Sawadjaan) is still here based on the latest intelligence report I received,” Sales said, adding that they are working closely with the Sulu-based 11th Infantry Division as the manhunt against Sawadjaan continues in the province.

Meanwhile, Sales said the rescued Indonesian teenager is still undergoing debriefing at the headquarters of the JTF-Basilan.

“There is no sign of indoctrination, and he refuses to become a suicide bomber like his parents,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1203897

Navy seizes P12.7-M smuggled rice off Tawi-Tawi

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 20, 2022): Navy seizes P12.7-M smuggled rice off Tawi-Tawi (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

ILLEGAL. Personnel of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM) and Bureau of Customs inspect the smuggled rice the NFWM operatives had seized near Papahag Island, Bongao, Tawi-Tawi on Monday (June 19, 2023). The NFWM team was on patrol when they chanced upon a wooden-hulled vessel loaded with 6,000 bags of rice worth PHP12.7 million. (Photo courtesy of NFWM)

ZAMBOANGA CITY – Operatives of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM) have seized some PHP12.7 million worth of smuggled rice off Tawi-Tawi, a top NFWM official said Tuesday.

Rear Adm. Donn Anthony Miraflor, NFWM commander, said the shipment of smuggled rice was intercepted Monday around 670 yards (0.61 km) north of Papahag Island, Tawi-Tawi.

Miraflor said the troops were on patrol at Chongos Bay, Bongao, Tawi-Tawi when they chanced upon a wooden-hulled vessel marked MV Katrina V, found to be loaded with 6,000 sacks of rice when inspected.

The undocumented 6,000 sacks of rice of 25 kilos each came from Malaysia and are worth PHP12.7 million, he said.

Miraflor said MV Katrina V, its crew, and the cargo were escorted to the Chinese Pier in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi, and turned over to the Bureau of Customs.

Miraflor did not identify the owner of the smuggled rice, who is allegedly based in this city.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1203925

Iloilo City sees more growth with insurgency-free status

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 20, 2022): Iloilo City sees more growth with insurgency-free status (By Perla Lena)

SAFE CITY. The Iloilo City Peace and Order Council and Anti-Drug Abuse Council adopt and approve the Joint Peace and Security Coordination Center (JPSCC) resolution recommending the declaration of the city as an “insurgency-free city” during their meeting held at the city hall on June 16, 2023. Mayor Jerry P. Treñas, in an interview on Tuesday (June 20, 2023), said the declaration is expected to bring in more development to the city. (Photo courtesy of Jerry P. Treñas Facebook page)

ILOILO CITY – The city government is eyeing more development for achieving its insurgency-free status.

The Iloilo City Peace and Order Council and Anti-Drug Abuse Council adopted and approved the Joint Peace and Security Coordination Center (JPSCC) resolution recommending the declaration of the city as an “insurgency-free city” during their June 16, 2023 meeting.

“We are very happy. I think we are among the very few cities in Western Visayas. That will allow us to get more developments,” said Mayor Jerry P. Treñas in an interview on Tuesday.

The JPSCC resolution passed during their meeting at the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) headquarters on June 9 said "there are no recorded violent incidents or non-violent urban activities perpetrated by the Communist Party of the Philippines New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) as well as existing formation within the city since 2018."

The resolution was signed by ICPO Director Col. Joeresty P. Coronica, Coast Guard Iloilo Station head Commander Paterno B. Belarmino Jr., and Philippine Army 301st Infantry Brigade commander Brig. Gen. Michael G. Samson.

Treñas said the declaration is a manifestation of all their hard work in creating a safe and livable city.

“We will continue with our initiatives to maintain our insurgency-free and generally peaceful status,” he said.

In terms of development, the mayor was informed that for the first time, a direct container shipment from Singapore is expected to arrive in the city on July 15.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1203903

Viscom vows to push for more localized peace initiatives

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 20, 2022): Viscom vows to push for more localized peace initiatives (By John Rey Saavedra)

Visayas Command commander, Lt. Gen. Benedict Arevalo. (PNA file photo)

CEBU CITY – The Visayas Command (Viscom) on Tuesday vowed to support localized peace initiatives to generate trust from the remnants of the New People’s Army (NPA) and persuade them to go back to the fold of the law.

Lt. Gen. Benedict Arevalo, Viscom commander, said engaging in localized talks on peace and development would entice more members of the Communist Party of the Philippines and its armed wing, NPA, to surrender.

“This incessant peace initiative hurts the terrorist group as much as our focused military operations, as it further demoralized their ranks and significantly contribute to degrading their manpower and armed capability,” Arevalo said in a statement.

He said that engaging directly in the grassroots level in providing development support programs along with the local and national government agencies, non-government organizations, and various stakeholders would build confidence from the remnants of the left-leaning organizations.

Arevalo reiterated his call to the remaining NPA fighters, especially those who are left without leaders, to lay down their arms and abandon their armed struggle, assuring them of the government support and assistance so that they can live a peaceful and progressive life with their family.

His statement came after a former rebel who is a political instructor of the NPA’s Sandatahang Yunit Pampropaganda under Front 3, Sub-Regional Committee Arctic of the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee yielded to the 52nd Infantry Battalion in Barangay Dao, Oras, Eastern Samar on Sunday, surrendering a .45 caliber pistol, following a successful localized peace engagement in the area.

The Army soldiers also seized five firearms along with four anti-personnel mines and several other war materiel.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1203926