VERA FILES FACT CHECK: Video DOES NOT show a ship sunk by China

From VERA FILES (Aug 11, 2023): VERA FILES FACT CHECK: Video DOES NOT show a ship sunk by China

A Facebook (FB) page uploaded a Reel supposedly of a vessel wrecked by the Chinese government, an incident allegedly concealed by the media. These claims are false.

Posted on Aug. 5, the FB reel showing the sinking vessel surrounded by other ships bore the text:

“Barko pinalubog ng china di ibinalita (Ship sunk by China not reported).”

Several netizens in the comments sections were misled that the clip shows a Philippine vessel sunk by China, as tensions escalate between the two countries after the recent water cannon incident in Ayungin Shoal.

The video actually shows a ferry boat intentionally sunk by the Brazilian government in 2020.

 

Reverse image search led VERA Files Fact Check to a TikTok account that uploaded a copy of the clip on June 4. The caption stated that it is footage of a ferry boat submerged in Baía de Todos-os-Santos (Bay of All Saints) in Bahia, Brazil.

An FB video uploaded by the local government of Bahia said it purposely submerged the retired ferry boat Agenor Gordilho on Nov. 21, 2020. Agenor Gordilho, along with the tugboat Vega, was sunk to create an artificial reef and encourage underwater tourism in the area.

The name “Agenor Gordilho” could be seen on the boat in the circulating Reel.

The false video was uploaded the same day the China Coast Guard (CCG) blocked and water cannoned the boats chartered by the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the escorting vessels from the Philippine Coast Guard in a resupply mission. Due to the blockade, only one of the two boats was able to deliver food, water, fuel and other supplies to the troops stationed at BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal.

VERA Files Fact Check previously flagged other false claims related to the West Philippine Sea territorial dispute. (Read Marcos did NOT order Navy, PCG to surround Chinese ships at Recto Bank)

The reel uploaded by the Filipino FB page NotifyMe (created on April 5) has 1,900 reactions, 579 comments, 1,900 shares and 119,000 views as of writing.

https://verafiles.org/articles/vera-files-fact-check-video-does-not-show-a-ship-sunk-by-china

Military chief: Philippines to deploy maritime militia in South China Sea

From BenarNews (Aug 10, 2023): Military chief: Philippines to deploy maritime militia in South China Sea (By Camille Elemia)

Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., the Philippine military chief, speaks to the media during a press briefing at Western Command in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Philippines, Aug. 10, 2023.  Eloisa Lopez/pool/Reuters

The Philippines plans to deploy its own maritime militia to defend its sovereignty amid a raging territorial row with China, the Filipino armed forces chief said Thursday as he visited an island on the frontline of the sea dispute.

Reporters who accompanied Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. on his tour of Palawan asked him if the military would deploy maritime militia forces as part of its transition to territorial defense from traditional internal security operations.

“Yes, it’s part of our plans, that’s part of our reserve force development,” the head of the Armed Forces of the Philippines replied.

“When we say reserve force it’s not just land-based forces, so we are also trying to develop our reservists who will be able to operate in sea,” he said during his visit to the AFP’s Western Command in Puerto Princesa, without releasing details about the militias.

China and Vietnam, which are among other countries with overlapping claims in the South China Sea, are known to operate fleets of ships and boats crewed by militia members.

Brawner said the military had established reserve units for deployment to the West Philippine Sea – Manila’s name for the South China Sea waters within the country’s 200-mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

“It’s already being implemented. We have established reserve units, but we are going to wait for the platforms or the vessels that actually would be used,” Brawner said, emphasizing that the way forward “depends on the funds.”

Brawner said there were plans to deploy ships and aircraft to guard the EEZ and establish the military’s presence in the sea.

“We want to use our fisher folks as reservists, we are going to teach them how to help us defend our country,” he said.

Brawner said the military also needed funds to improve its facilities in the West Philippine Sea.

In 2020, diplomatic tensions between China and the Philippines escalated with Manila’s discovery of large numbers of Chinese militia ships, which appeared to be trawlers, clustering within the waters of the Philippine EEZ.

Suspected Chinese maritime militia boats are seen anchored off a disputed shoal in the Spratly Islands in the South China Sea, Feb. 21, 2023. [National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea handout/AFP]

On Thursday, Vice Adm. Alberto Carlos, who leads the Western Command, said more than 400 foreign fishing boats, mostly from China, were intruding into the country’s territory.

Carlos said about 190 of these boats were in the vicinity of the Chinese-occupied Mischief Reef, which is about 134 nautical miles from Palawan or more than 600 nautical miles from China.

“It’s more than 400 [fishing boats], based on the last monitoring. That’s foreign vessels’ incursions in the West Philippine Sea now,” Carlos said, referring to the most recent check on Wednesday.

“This is inside the EEZ … maybe 85% of these are Chinese – that’s my estimate based on my [information],” he said.

According to Carlos, military leaders suspect that Chinese fishing fleets are in fact Chinese militias. He noted the involvement of two Chinese fishing boats during the harassment of two Philippine Coast Guard and two supply boats near Ayungin Shoal last week.

“Our suspicion is they are militia vessels taking orders from the [China] Coast Guard. … The incident shows that they seem to be working … taking orders from the Chinese coast guard,” Carlos said.

Military chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. speaks to troops at the Western Command in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Philippines, Aug. 10, 2023. [Eloisa Lopez/pool/Reuters]

Brawner went to Palawan island amid a flurry of defense and diplomatic meetings that followed the incident at Ayungin Shoal.

On Wednesday, a spokesman for the country’s task force on the West Philippine Sea said the Philippines and its defense ally, the United States, were in the final stages of an agreement to launch joint patrols this year in the South China Sea to deter encroachment by foreign ships.

Apart from China, Vietnam and the Philippines, parts of the South China Sea are claimed by Brunei, Malaysia and Taiwan.

https://www.benarnews.org/english/news/philippine/maritime-militia-08102023135600.html

Wescom ready to comply with fund requirements for BRP Sierra Madre’s refurbishment

 From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Aug 10, 2023): Wescom ready to comply with fund requirements for BRP Sierra Madre’s refurbishment (By: John Eric Mendoza)

FOIL VS CONTROL The presence of BRP Sierra Madre, the naval outpost on Ayungin Shoal that has gone rusty from wear and tear over the years, has served as a foil against China’s attempt at having full control of it, according to Jay Batongbacal. —INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

PALAWAN, Philippines — The Western Command (Wescom) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is ready to comply with the requirements for the refurbishment of the BRP Sierra Madre, its commander Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos said on Thursday.

As one of the unified commands of the AFP, Wescom is in charge of Palawan and Kalayaan Islands including Ayungin Shoal where the BRP Sierra Madre is located.

Carlos made the commitment in view of opposition Senator Risa Hontiveros and Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri’s proposal for the aground ship’s refurbishment.

READ: Senators want BRP Sierra Madre to get refurbished: ‘Reinforce PH presence in Ayungin Shoal’

“All courses of action to prolong our stay there are considered, and one of them is the refurbishment,” Carlos said in a press briefing here in Wescom headquarters in Puerto Princesa City. “Whatever options that we choose, whatever options we select to implement, it will require funding, so we really welcome the offer of the good Senator.”

“So we will submit our requirements … and we are happy that there are already statements of support,” he added, partly in Filipino.

For his part, AFP chief Romeo Brawner Jr. said the armed forces are not just focusing on Ayungin Shoal, particularly in BRP Sierra Madre, but also on other Philippine-occupied islands in the West Philippine Sea.

“We are in fact, looking at the whole picture in the West Philippine Sea,” Brawner said.

“There are many islands there that we are occupying and we also need funds to improve the facilities there,” he added, partly in Filipino.

The BRP Sierra Madre is a commissioned Philippine Navy vessel which has hosted a small contingent of military personnel to assert Manila’s claim to the disputed waters since 1999.

It recently hogged the headlines after a China Coast Guard vessel fired a water cannon at a PCG vessel and a supply ship delivering food, water, fuel and other supplies to military personnel stationed in the ship.

China’s actions are anchored on its assertion that it owns almost all of the areas in the South China Sea, including the WPS through its nine-dash line.

But the Philippines challenged this before the Permanent Court of Arbitration, which later invalidated Beijing’s sweeping claim.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1815167/afps-wescom-ready-to-comply-with-fund-requirements-for-brp-sierra-madres-refurbishment

AFP to 'carefully' plan next Ayungin resupply mission

From the Manila Times (Aug 11, 2023): AFP to 'carefully' plan next Ayungin resupply mission (By Franco Jose C. Baroña)

THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said on Thursday that it will carefully plan the next resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal to ensure that it will be safely and successfully carried out.

This shows the BRP Sierra Madre of the Philippine Navy anchored near Ayungin Shoal with Filipino soldiers onboard to secure perimeter in the Spratly Islands in the West Philippine Sea on May 11, 2015. PHOTO BY RITCHIE B. TONGO/POOL PHOTO VIA AP

"I know that in the next (resupply mission), all the people in the world are waiting; their eyes are watching what will happen, so let the people know what is being done offensively, the offensive actions, unlawful actions that the China coast guard is doing," AFP spokesman Col. Medel Aguilar said in a public briefing.

Aguilar said the resupply mission will continue as the AFP cannot neglect its soldiers assigned in the West Philippine Sea.

"We have our rights, and we also have responsibilities," he added. "Paramount in our consideration is the safety of our people who will carry out the resupply mission."

Aguilar denied claims made by China that one of the vessels that was blocked by China's coast guard vessel was carrying construction materials for the BRP Sierra Madre.

"At the time (on Aug. 5), it was clear that the contents to be delivered were water, food and supplies that our soldiers needed. Now if at all we develop or repair the BRP Sierra Madre because it is old, rusted, it is our right; the vessel is a commissioned vessel, an active vessel, and it is the obligation of the AFP to repair or maintain it; no one should interfere if we do this," he said.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2023/08/11/news/national/afp-to-carefully-plan-next-ayungin-resupply-mission/1904822

Soldier injured in NPA clash gets cash aid

From the Manila Times (Aug 11, 2023): Soldier injured in NPA clash gets cash aid (By Eugene Y. Adiong)

BACOLOD CITY: The policeman wounded in a firefight with suspected New People's Army (NPA) rebels on Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023, has received cash assistance.

Cpt. Judesses Catalogo, spokesman for the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office, said Cpl. Dennis Nasis of the Calatrava Police Station received a P90,000 cash assistance from both NOCPPO and Police Regional Office-6 (PRO-6) for his surgery and medication.

Nasis, who was transferred to a hospital in Bacolod City, underwent surgery on Thursday morning after sustaining gunshot wounds on his abdomen and shoulder.

Catalogo said Nasis is in stable condition.

Calatrava deputy police chief Cpt. Jesus Alba has already been discharged from the hospital after sustaining a gunshot wound to the leg.

The family of the lone fatality, Cpl. Jayme Nuñez, has also received an initial cash assistance of P30,000 from PRO-6 and Catalogo said they are already processing additional aid for the slain policeman's next of kin.

Nuñez is also expected to receive a posthumous award for his actions in the gunbattle.

Catalogo said there was a third police officer wounded in the clash, Cpl. Frank Caballero.

Caballero only discovered that he was wounded in the fight after going home and his mother finding bullet graze wounds all over his back, he added.

Catalogo said Caballero's wounds were not serious.

He clarified that Wednesday's gunbattle at Sitio Upper Ikugan in Calatrava town's Barangay Minapasuk "was an encounter, not an ambush."

He said the policemen were dispatched to the area not just to respond to an incident that took place prior to the clash, but also to serve the arrest warrants of two local NPA leaders.

Catalogo identified the two alleged NPA leaders as Darry Dayawan and Charity Amacan, both of whom were accused of being involved in the murder of a barangay kagawad (village councilor) and barangay captain (village captain) in the town.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2023/08/11/regions/soldier-injured-in-npa-clash-gets-cash-aid/1904810

AFP affirms commitment to staying in Ayungin Shoal

From Palawan News (Aug 10, 2023): AFP affirms commitment to staying in Ayungin Shoal (By Gerald Ticke)

(L-R) WESCOM commander Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos, AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner, and Naval Forces West commander Commodore Alan Javier. (Photo by CAR Formoso)

The Philippine military forces reiterated their commitment not to leave Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea, after the Chinese government said the country’s government was not following through on its vow to remove the BRP Sierra Madre from the area.

Western Command (WESCOM) Chief Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos stated that they have received a clear marching order from the National Security Council (NSC) not to leave Ayungin Shoal.

This follows President Ferdinand Marcos’s declaration that there is no agreement between the Philippines and China to remove the Philippine Navy ship, which was intentionally run aground at Ayungin Shoal to serve as a military outpost for the Philippines.

“To comply with that order, it is not only the national Security Council but the president in a message last night, (where he stated that) as far as the agreement, there is none so that is already a marching order for us and ang very first concern of Wescom to be able to comply with that directive is to resupply the vessel,” Carlos said in a media briefing during the visit of AFP chief of staff General Romeo Brawner Jr. at Wescom, Thursday afternoon.

Carlos said they will continue to conduct rotation and resupply (RORE) missions to Ayungin Shoal to provide goods to the soldiers stationed on BRP Sierra Madre.

He explained that RORE missions to Ayungin Shoal are regularly conducted monthly to deliver a one-month supply of food, water, and other items to the station.

However, after the incident on August 5, where Chinese Coast Guard and militia vessels blocked the resupply vessel and used water cannons on it en route to Ayungin Shoal, only half of the supply was delivered because one of the civilian vessels was soaked with water.

“We need to do another run before the supplies run out in LS 57. We’re going to do that again in two weeks-time, earliest next week hopefully but definitely before the supplies run out,” Carlos said.

He further stated that he is hoping for a calmer and safer voyage in the next RORE mission, without another incident.

“It is our prayer that there will be no more water cannon incident and less aggressive reception from the other side (China) especially because of the international attention that this incident generated,” he stated.

“There’s already a bilateral consultative mechanism (BCM). The DFA (Department of Foreign Affairs) has [already] called out the Chinese side but the hotline did not work during the incident last week. But hopefully, this time, the DFA has already mentioned it and complained about the hotline maybe this time, it will work and through the BCM, we can continue the dialogue and the diplomacy because that’s what is always being said to avoid any miscalculations there,” he added.
He also said the same civilian vessels used on August 5 will be used again after they were able to safely return to Puerto Princesa City.

“I inspected them recently, no material damage and they’re good to go for another run,” he said.

Furthermore, Carlos said they are taking other actions to keep stronghold of Ayungin Shoal with many options being considered but added that additional actions would also require additional funds.

“As far as other options in the long run, we are considering many options but as of now, I could not tell you what the options are, but all of these are on the table and we are considering, so that we can comply that Ayungin will not be abandoned and we will not pull out LS 57 there, that is the marching order that we need to comply, Carlos said.

“All courses of actions to prolong our stay there are being considered with many options and one of them is refurbishment. Whatever options that we choose to implement, it will require funds so we welcome the offer of the Senator na susuportahan niya. We will submit whatever requirements are needed,” he added.

Meanwhile, Brawner also stated that aside from Ayungin Shoal, the AFP is also looking to improve stations in other Philippine-occupied features in the West Philippine Sea.

“We are in fact looking at the whole picture of WPS and marami rin tayong ibang isla na we are occupying and we also need funds in order to improve the facilities there,” Brawner said.

As of now, we only have small structures that could accommodate only a few persons so we need to improve them to also further strengthen our presence in WPS, and these would entail more funds,” he explained, further stating that they have already sought assistance from the Congress.

https://palawan-news.com/afp-affirms-commitment-to-staying-in-ayungin-shoal/

Marcos seeks PH-Vietnam maritime deal

From CNN Philippines (Aug 10, 2023): Marcos seeks PH-Vietnam maritime deal (By CNN Philippines Staff)

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 11) — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the planned Philippine-Vietnam maritime pact will be “a very big step” for the two countries amid woes in the South China Sea.

In a statement, Malacañang said outgoing Vietnam Ambassador to the Philippines Hoang Huy Chung paid a farewell call on Marcos on Thursday, during which they discussed the signing of the maritime agreement.

“Now that we are going to start discussions on the agreement that we have between the Philippines and Vietnam, I think it is a very, very important – it will be a very, very important part of our relationship and it will bring an element of stability to the problems that we are seeing now in the South China Sea,” the president said.

The realization of the deal, Marcos stressed, “is going to be a very big step” between the two nations.

In May, Marcos expressed hope that the discussion on this possible agreement with Vietnam would soon take off to avoid any conflict in the contested waterways.

Chung, meanwhile, told Marcos that Vietnam has “respect for your thought that you are a friend to all, [enemy to none].”

Marcos said the two countries share a “solid agreement” that would help them face “common challenges when it comes to territorial disputes in the South China Sea.”

“I really believe that we have to make these bilateral agreements," the president said. "I think you will not be surprised and I think I’m not giving away any confidence that we will like to have these bilateral agreements as well with the other countries within ASEAN."

https://www.cnnphilippines.com/news/2023/8/11/marcos-ph-vietnam-maritime-deal.html

Over 400 foreign vessels in WPS, around 85% are Chinese – AFP WESCOM

From CNN Philippines (Aug 10, 2023): Over 400 foreign vessels in WPS, around 85% are Chinese – AFP WESCOM (By CNN Philippines Staff)

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 10) – Over 400 foreign vessels were sighted within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone in the West Philippine Sea, and around 85% of them are Chinese, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Western Command (WESCOM) reported.

“Based on our last monitoring [on Wednesday], malapit-lapit sa [close to] 500. Lagpas [Over] 400...That is all foreign, all foreign vessel incursions in the West Philippine Sea now,” WESCOM Commander Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos told the media on Thursday.

Carlos added: “400 plus is a safe estimate because there may be a duplication of sightings… siguro mga 85% doon are Chinese [maybe around 85% of them are Chinese].”

He said that in Mischief Reef or Panganiban Reef alone, there were 191 Chinese vessels.

As a result, AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner said that the Philippines would increase its maritime presence through seafaring vessels and aircraft over the contested waters.

“We really have to establish in our area, ang labanan dito padamihan. Naturally, hindi tayo lumaban sa level ng China [The fight here is through numbers. Naturally, we cannot fight China at their level head on]…We will try to deploy more ships para ma-establish yung presence sa lugar [to establish our presence in the area],” Brawner said.

This report comes after Beijing’s latest incursion in the West Philippine Sea, when Chinese Coast Guard vessels on Aug. 5 fired a water cannon at Filipino vessels en route to deliver supplies to BRP Sierra Madre stationed on Ayungin Shoal.

READ: Chinese coast guard fired water cannons at PH vessels en route to Ayungin Shoal – PCG

Carlos added that after the water cannon incident, only one Chinese vessel has been monitored so far near Ayungin Shoal.

In 2021, the National Task Force on the West Philippine Sea reported that there were around 287 Chinese vessels suspected to be maritime militia scattered over various parts of the West Philippine Sea.

READ: 287 Chinese vessels remain scattered within, outside PH EEZ — WPS task force

China continues to lead incursions in the West Philippine Sea, despite the 2016 arbitral ruling under the United Nations Convention for the Law of the Sea which nullified its sweeping claims over the South China Sea, one that covered 80% of the Philippines' EEZ.

https://www.cnnphilippines.com/news/2023/8/10/over-400-vessels-wps-85-percent-chinese.html

AFP to deploy reservists, increase maritime presence in WPS

From CNN Philippines (Aug 10, 2023): AFP to deploy reservists, increase maritime presence in WPS (By CNN Philippines Staff)

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 10) – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is looking at tapping naval reservists to increase presence in the West Philippine Sea, Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner said.

“Parte nung reserve force development natin [part of our reserve force development], when you say reserve force it's not just land based forces. We are also trying to develop our reservists who will also be able to operate in the sea,” Brawner told the media at a press conference in Palawan on Thursday.

He added that the AFP is looking into training fisherfolk as reservists to better aid in defense and to enhance presence in contested waters.

“It's already being implemented. We have established already these reserve units but we are going to wait for the platforms or the vessels na gagamitin nila [that they will use],” he said.

The military is also looking to increase the deployment of seafaring vessels and aircraft, Brawner said.

The AFP said the initiative includes refurbishing the BRP Sierra Madre and other troop bases in the West Philippine Sea, if the military is granted more funding.

Meanwhile, Brawner said he will attend the Chief of Defense Forces meeting in Fiji next week, where over 20 countries – China included – will send defense representatives.

He said that the meeting would cover the promotion of rules-based order over the Indo-Pacific region and the establishment of joint patrols in the West Philippine Sea, the details of which are now being arranged.

These developments come after the Chinese coast guard fired a water cannon at a Philippine vessel during a resupply mission to the BRP Sierra Madre on Saturday.

As of this writing, over 400 foreign vessels have been sighted in the West Philippine Sea, 85% of which were Chinese, the military said.

https://www.cnnphilippines.com/news/2023/8/10/afp-maritime-reservists-ph-presence-wps.html

Marcos: Planned PH-Vietnam maritime deal to help bring stability to South China Sea

From Rappler (Aug 11, 2023): Marcos: Planned PH-Vietnam maritime deal to help bring stability to South China Sea (By BEA CUPIN)

President Marcos tells Vietnam Ambassador Hoang Huy Chung that the eyed bilateral agreement 'will be a very, very important part' of ties between the Philippines and Vietnam. Both countries have experienced China's aggression in the South China Sea.

MANILA, Philippines – Stronger maritime cooperation between the Philippines and Vietnam – the subject of discussions between the two countries – will help bring stability to “problems” in the South China Sea, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. told outgoing Vietnam Ambassador Hoang Huy Chung when the envoy made a farewell call in Malacañang on Thursday, August 10.

“Now that we are going to start discussions on the agreement that we have between the Philippines and Vietnam, I think it is a very, very important – it will be a very, very important part of our relationship and it will bring an element of stability to the problems that we are seeing now in the South China Sea,” Marcos told Chung.

Malacañang said in a statement that Marcos was “looking forward to signing an agreement with Vietnam in a bid to strengthen maritime cooperation in the West Philippine Sea.” Philippines calls the portion of the South China Sea under its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) as the West Philippine Sea.

Chung began his tour of duty as ambassador to the Philippines in June 2020. Prior to his Manila stint, he was Vietnam’s deputy director general of the Department of Maritime Affairs from 2017 to 2019.

Marcos framed the Philippines-Vietnam ties as solid, making it easy to face “common challenges” when it comes to “territorial disputes in the South China Sea.”

“We have very respect for your thought that you are a friend to all, [enemy to none],” Malacañang quoted Chung as tell the Philippine leader, referring to the Marcos administration’s foreign affairs slogan.

Vietnam, like the Philippines, is among the claimants in the resource-rich South China Sea.

In May, Vietnam criticized both the Philippines and China in relation to the two countries’ activities in the South China Sea, accusing them of violating Vietnam’s sovereign rights. At the time, the Philippines placed buoys in its EEZ, which it said was consistent with its rights as a coastal state under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, while a Chinese research vessel entered Vietnam’s EEZ without prior notification.

Both the Philippines and Vietnam have constantly experienced China’s aggressive actions in their respective EEZs.

Marcos’ warm exchange with Chung comes days after the Chinese Coast Guard and Chinese militia vessels harassed and pointed water cannons towards Philippine Coast Guard ships and military-commissioned ships on a resupply mission to an outpost in Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea.

Marcos had earlier rebuked China’s claim that the Philippines promised to remove the its outpost in Ayungin, the World War 2-era BRP Sierra Madre. The Philippine President said that if an agreement was made, he rescinds it.

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), which the Philippines and Vietnam are part of, and China are set to meet from August 22 to 24 to discuss the decades-delayed Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea. Experts have said that the bloc and the Asian superpower are unlikely to ever find consensus over the proposed COC, which has been under negotiation since 2002.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/marcos-jr-philippines-vietnam-maritime-cooperation-agreement-south-china-sea/

Rebels kill 2 civilians to set up ambush

From the Visayan Daily Star (Aug 10, 2023): Rebels kill 2 civilians to set up ambush (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

Volunteers carry the cadavers of two civilians killed by NPA rebels on Aug. 9 in Sitio Icogan, Brgy. Minapasuk, Calatrava, Negros Occidental.* 79IB photo

Two civilians were summarily executed by suspected New People’s Army rebels on August 9 in Sitio Icogan, Brgy. Minapasuk, Calatrava, Negros Occidental, before they staged an ambush on responding policemen.

Killed by about seven NPA members were Felix Resutai and his nephew, Eliseo Mahilum. Both succumbed to gunshot injuries in the head, according to Ruden Resutai, the son of Felix.

Ruden Resutai and Mercidita Zamora, the live in partner of Felix for three years, who were spared by the armed suspects, said the victims were tagged by the armed men as “intel” (intelligence assets) of the military.

Both victims were killed in front of Ruden and Zamora, who claimed that rebels also fired their guns in front of them.

Ruden debunked claims that his father was a military “intel”.

He also disclosed that he had been warned by the armed men not to follow the footsteps of his father, as they will return to kill some more.

The 79th Infantry Battalion and Police Regional condemned the barbaric act of communist rebels of killing of two innocent civilians in front of their family members.

Lt. Col. Arnel Calaoagan, 79IB commander, in a statement said the killing of unarmed civilians is a clear violation of International Humanitarian Law.

Calaoagan assured the people of northern Negros that they will relentlessly hunt the suspects, to serve justice for the victims of their senseless killings.

Members of the Calatrava Police Station, who were responding to the killings of two civilians were then ambushed by NPA members in the same barangay.

Killed was PCpl. Jaime Nuñez, while injured were PCapt. Jesus Alba, deputy police chief of Calatrava, and PCpl. Dennis Nasis.

Initial police investigations indicated that an improvised landmine exploded and hit the patrol vehicle of Calatrava Police Station, leading to the injuries of three policemen on board the vehicle.

Alba, along with several other policemen on board the Calatrava police patrol vehicle, said some of them managed to disembark the vehicle and engage the rebels in a firefight.

Nuñez died on the spot, according to the police.

Alba was declared as outpatient, after treatment of his minor injuries, while Nasis is undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Bacolod City.*

https://visayandailystar.com/rebels-kill-2-civilians-to-set-up-ambush/

4 Sayyaf terrorists yield in Sulu

From the Mindanao Examiner (Aug 10, 2023): 4 Sayyaf terrorists yield in Sulu

ZAMBOANGA CITY – Four Abu Sayyaf terrorists have surrendered to the Philippine Navy in Sulu, one of six provinces under the Muslim autonomous region in Mindanao.

The Naval Forces Western Mindanao made the announcement on Thursday and said the terrorists also yielded two rifles, one sub-machine gun, an automatic pistol and a revolver, including a fragmentation grenade.

A photo released by the Naval Forces Western Mindanao shows the four Abu Sayyaf terrorists who surrendered in Sulu province.

It said the four men - Jumah Rumil Hassan, Almujer Akkas Asid, Lim Masihol, and Junain Junaid - were presented to Rear Adm. Donn Anthony Miraflor, commander of Naval Forces Western Mindanao, in Zamboanga City.

“The Naval Forces Western Mindanao in collaboration with Joint Task Force - Sulu and the Ministry of Peace, Order, and Safety-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao successfully facilitated the surrender of four alleged Sulu Based- Abu Sayyaf members along with a cache of firearms and explosives at Headquarters Naval Forces Western Mindanao,” said Miraflor.

He said the men underwent a routine medical examination at the Camp Navarro General Hospital inside the Western Mindanao Command before sending them back to Sulu for “possible inclusion in the government's Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program in the province.”

The government program provides surrendered Abu Sayyaf fighters and communist rebels various livelihood and financial aids to help them start a new life.

“The successful surrender operation signifies the continued dedication and effectiveness of the joint efforts by the military and government agencies in maintaining peace, order, and security in the region,” Miraflor said.

Miraflor did not release details of the operation that led to the peaceful surrender of the terrorists, but the military previously said that Sulu province is now free from the influence of the notorious group following the mass surrender of its members the past years. (Al Jacinto)

https://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2023/08/4-sayyaf-terrorists-yield-in-sulu.html

PAF, US Air Force crew members train on airborne HADR ops

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 10, 2023): PAF, US Air Force crew members train on airborne HADR ops (By Priam Nepomuceno)

One of the PAF Lockheed C-130 "Hercules" cargo transport aircraft seen on the runway of Pag-asa Island in April 2017. (PNA file photo by Priam Nepomuceno)

MANILA – Philippine Air Force (PAF) Lockheed C-130 "Hercules" transport aircraft crew members together with its United States Air Force (USAF) counterparts and participants from 12 other air forces will participate in exercises essential to airborne humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) from Aug. 14 to 18.

In a statement Wednesday night, PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo said participants to the Pacific Airlift Rally 2023 (PAR-23) would be provided with airborne training exercises, airlift operations, logistical planning table-top exercises and subject matter expert exchanges (SMEE) that will focus on HADR operations.

"Participants will practice mission planning, cargo handling and loading, multinational air-land and airdrop operations, as well as medical transport operations among others," she added.

Aside from the PAF and the USAF, other participating nations in PAR-23 include Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Bangladesh, Brunei, Canada, Maldives, Mongolia, Nepal, Singapore, Sri Lanka and Timor-Leste.

These training activities will be held in the Philippines with different activities happening at Clark Air Base, Mabalacat, Pampanga; Villamor Air Base, Pasay City; and Brig. Gen. Benito N. Ebuen Air Base, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu.

Castillo said PAF C-130s from the 220th Airlift Wing at Brig. Gen. Benito N. Ebuen Air Base, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, will take part in the exercise together with C-130s from the USAF, Japan Air Self-Defense Force, Royal Malaysian Air Force and Indonesian Air Force for the flight training portion of the PAR-23 Field Training Exercise (FTX).

The PAF, together with multinational military operations and logistics planners, will also conduct the PAR-23 Multinational Table-Top Exercise (TTX) that will center on HADR airlift operations and logistical planning for aircraft deployment staging, cargo and movement mission planning and multinational airlift capability analysis for airlift mission schedule prioritization.

Castillo said these are all vital components in airlift mission planning essential not only for local operations but also during multinational HADR operations.

"Various SMEEs will also take place as part of PAR-23. These include SMEEs on C-130 aircraft maintenance, austere and expeditionary medicine, advance patient movement and evacuation, air force defense and force protection, building resiliency through military bands and chaplain service-related topics," Castillo said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1207531

AFP: PH has the right to repair, maintain BRP Sierra Madre

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 10, 2023): AFP: PH has the right to repair, maintain BRP Sierra Madre (By Priam Nepomuceno)

BRP Sierra Madre (PNA file photo)

MANILA – The Philippines has the right to repair and develop the BRP Sierra Madre (LST-57), the ship deployed to the Ayungin Shoal, if needed.

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Col. Medel Aguilar made this remark Thursday in response to Chinese claims that Filipino supply ships were carrying construction supplies to upgrade or repair the Philippine Navy ship.

This reportedly prompted the Chinese Coast Guard and Chinese maritime militia vessels to conduct maneuvers aimed at preventing the Philippines' resupply mission on Aug. 5

He also maintained that the Filipino supply boats were only carrying water, food and other supplies during their rotation and resupply (RORE) mission.

"Nung panahon po na nagkakaroon tayo ng RORE maliwanag na ang laman po ay tubig, pagkain at mga supply na kailangan ng ating mga sundalo para meron silang pagkain habang sila ay nandun sa BRP Sierra Madre (at the time of our RORE mission, it was pretty clea that water, food and other supplies were being carried for our soldiers while they are deployed aboard BRP Sierra Madre)," Aguilar said.

"Ngayon po kung sakali man na i-develop natin o ayusin natin ang BRP Sierra Madre dahil ito po ay luma na, kinakalawang na, itoy ay karapatan natin, ang BRP Sierra Madre ay isang commissioned vessel, isang active na vessel at ito'y obligasyon ng Sandatahang Lakas ng Pilipinas na ito ay i-repair at saka i-maintain, walang sinuman ang dapat na makialam kung ito ay gagawin natin (Now, if there is a need to develop or repair BRP Sierra Madre because it now old and rusty, it is well within our rights because the BRP Sierra Madre is still a commissioned ship, an active vessel, and it is the obligation of the AFP to repair and maintain it. No one should interfere with this should we decide to do it)," he added.

He also maintained that the AFP is committed to resupplying military personnel manning the BRP Sierra Madre and other features in the West Philippine Sea.

On Wednesday, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. also said there is no existing agreement between the Philippines and China to remove BRP Sierra Madre from Ayungin Shoal.

The Chief Executive's remarks came after Beijing earlier claimed that Manila had “repeatedly promised to tow away” the grounded warship from the Ayungin Shoal, a feature within the Kalayaan Island Group less than 200 nautical miles off Palawan.

“I’m not aware of any such arrangement or agreement that the Philippines will remove from its own territory its ship, in this case, the BRP Sierra Madre from the Ayungin Shoal,” Marcos said in a video message released by the Presidential Communications Office.

Marcos added that he is repealing any commitment, should there be an existing agreement between the Philippines and China on the supposed removal of the BRP Sierra Madre from Ayungin Shoal.

The National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS) earlier condemned Chinese attempts to block the country's efforts to resupply its troops stationed in Ayungin Shoal.

National Security Council Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya, meanwhile, said they are puzzled by such claims from China.

He added that if Beijing will continue to assert this claim, it should identify the person or persons who promised them such.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1207546

PCG exec calls out ‘unpatriotic actions’ amid latest WPS incident

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 10, 2023): PCG exec calls out ‘unpatriotic actions’ amid latest WPS incident (By Raymond Carl Dela Cruz)

DANGEROUS MANEUVERS. A China Coast Guard vessel uses a water cannon against a Philippine Coast Guard ship escorting a military vessel on a resupply mission in Ayungin Shoal on Saturday (Aug. 5, 2023). An official of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has urged Filipinos to unite in protecting the nation's interests and call out China’s aggressive and illegal actions in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), amid the recent incident at the Ayungin Shoal. (Photo courtesy of PCG)

MANILA – An official of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has urged Filipinos to unite in protecting the nation's interests and call out China’s aggressive and illegal actions in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) in the wake of the recent incident at the Ayungin Shoal.

Over Twitter on Thursday, PCG spokesperson for the WPS Commodore Jay Tarriela said it is "important to show loyalty to country" given the current situation, after Chinese ships used water cannons and repeatedly blocked Philippine vessels during a resupply mission in Ayungin Shoal.

“If you are a Filipino, whether in government or private sector, regardless of your politics, defending and making excuses for China's aggressive behavior should deem you unpatriotic, and a traitor to the Philippines and to our people,” Tarriela said.

“While I recognize freedom of speech as an important right guaranteed by our constitution, it should not be misused as a means to justify unpatriotic actions by acting as China's mouthpiece,” he said.

He noted that Ayungin Shoal and the WPS in general are part of the country’s territory.

READ: PBBM: No PH-China deal to remove BRP Sierra Madre from Ayungin

"Together, we should stand united in protecting our nation's interests and pursuing a peaceful resolution to the issues," he said. “Dahil sa WPS ang yaman nito ay para sa Pilipino! (Because the natural resources in the WPS are for Filipinos!)."

Last Aug. 5, two PCG vessels were escorting two indigenous boats chartered by the Armed Forces of the Philippines to resupply BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal when they encountered six China Coast Guard vessels, 12 maritime militia vessels and three People’s Liberation Army – Navy (PLA-N) vessels.

During the encounter, the Chinese ships separated the PCG vessels and the supply boats using water cannons and through dangerous blocking maneuvers, resulting in one supply boat reaching BRP Sierra Madre while the other was forced to retreat.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1207554

102 ex-MILF, MNLF members take oath as new cops

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 10, 2023): 102 ex-MILF, MNLF members take oath as new cops (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

(Photo courtesy of PNP Public Information Office)

MANILA – At least 102 new police recruits from members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) took their oath as members of the Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO-BAR) on Thursday morning.

During the oath-taking rites at the PRO-BAR headquarters in Parang, Maguindanao del Norte, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benhur Abalos described the event as "making history" and called the new police officers the “crème de la crème (best of the best)” among the 11,000 applicants from the two groups.

“Undeniably you will be facing challenges, hardships, and struggles. Sa mga susunod na araw marami pang hamon sa buhay (There are still many challenges in the coming days). At the end of this road, be reminded of the success of overcoming the strenuous training in molding you to become a better version of yourself, in discovering your potential to make a difference,” he said.

“Today you will be clothed with the uniform of the PNP and may this remind you of your mission to guard the vulnerable. Be the champion of truth and be the example of bravery and responsibility,” Abalos said in his message to the newly inducted PNP patrolmen and patrolwomen.

The inclusion of the two groups is part of Republic Act 11054 or the Organic Law for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao after the government signed a peace accord with the Bangsamoro people.

“The whole government led by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., including the DILG, PNP (Philippine National Police), and the National Police Commission, are here to support the Bangsamoro to ensure that the implementation of the Bangsamoro Organic Act will be successful. We have already taken steps towards attaining lasting peace in the region. Sama-sama tayo sa pagkakaisa natin dito sa Mindanao,” the Interior Secretary said.

Abalos also bared plans to start another selection process for a new batch of patrolmen and patrolwomen from MILF and MNLF to achieve the target of 400 recruits before the end of this year.

PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo said the new police officers would undergo a one-year basic recruitment basic course and a six-month field training program.

Once they finish these courses, they would be given a temporary appointment status and would be assigned to the PRO-BAR.

“Kung matatandaan niyo 400 supposedly yung slot natin para sa kanila subalit hindi nafill up ito kaya yung ibang mga applikante particularly those na may mga compliance sa mga medical requirements ay susunod sila na ipaprocess at ioopen ulit natin yung recruiment process para naman makumpleto natin yung remaining slots na dedicated sa members ng MNLF at MILF (If you remember, our slot for them is supposed to be 400 but it was not filled up, so the other applicants, particularly those who have complied with the medical requirements, will be processed next and we will open the recruitment process again so that we can complete the remaining slots dedicated to the members of the MNLF and MILF),” Fajardo told reporters in a press briefing on Thursday.

Since the 400 slots allocated for PRO-BAR were not filled up, Fajardo said the regional office will initiate moves to complete the quota in the future recruitment process.

Fajardo also emphasized that the PNP does not see any risk in integrating MILF and MNLF members into the police force.

“The intention really is for them to serve the BARMM in order for them to be empowered which means that the cooperation and genuine concern for all the people of the BARMM will come from them,” Fajardo said.

In May 2022, around 7,000 of 11,000 MNLF and MILF members passed a special qualifying eligibility examination to join the PNP.

Fajardo said earlier they have started the processing of 1,000 passers who have been endorsed by the Bangsamoro government -- 700 of whom are from the MILF and 300 are from the MILF.

The applicants would have to pass the body mass index test, physical agility test, psychological examination and physical and dental examination.

The National Police Commission earlier said the age requirement for MILF and MNLF applicants shall not be below 20 and not over 35 years old.

One of the major requirements for the applicants to the special qualifying exams is a certification from the MILF and the MNLF that they are bonafide members of the organizations.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1207557

DOLE, NTF-ELCAC vow to safeguard workers' freedom of association

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 10, 2023): DOLE, NTF-ELCAC vow to safeguard workers' freedom of association (By Ferdinand Patinio)

(File photo)

MANILA – The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) committed to safeguarding the workers’ fundamental right to freedom of association while upholding the whole-of-nation approach to end local communist armed conflict.

Officials of the DOLE and NTF-ELCAC recently met to promote a common understanding of freedom of association and strengthen areas of convergence in implementing the task force’s initiatives, DOLE said in a news release Thursday.

The Aug. 2 meeting at Luxent Hotel, Quezon City is an offshoot of the DOLE-Bureau of Labor Relations’ (BLR) discussion with NTF-ELCAC on June 30 where freedom of association and its implications on the socio-economic agenda of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. were tackled.

Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma vowed to strengthen the DOLE's' partnership with the anti-insurgency body and recognized efforts in fulfilling its mandate.

He also assured continued support to the task force’s programs on labor education, livelihood training, and employment facilitation.

“The DOLE plays an indispensable role in safeguarding and championing labor rights, including the fundamental right to freedom of association, a cornerstone for democratic and inclusive workspaces,” Laguesma said.

“From shaping policy and enforcing standards to promoting the welfare of workers, mediating labor disputes, and providing valuable education about rights and obligations, it forms the backbone of our workforce protection,” he said, referring to workers' freedom of association as stipulated in the International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention No. 87.

Meanwhile, NTF-ELCAC executive director Undersecretary Ernesto Torres Jr. identified areas of collaboration with the DOLE, such as the sustained initiative on the Barangay Development Program.

It aims for the rehabilitation and development of barangays formerly established as guerilla fronts through the provision of farm-to-market roads, school buildings, water and sanitation systems, health stations, livelihood projects, rural electrification, reconstruction, housing, vaccination and immunization, and other assistance.

Torres said a total of 14,000 former rebels were assisted through the DOLE Integrated Livelihood and Emergency Employment Program (DILEEP), as of the first quarter of 2023.

Of the number, 4,810 former rebels were given livelihood aid under the Kabuhayan Program and 9,190 others were provided emergency employment under the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) Program.

Another area of collaboration identified by the NTF-ELCAC is an information drive on labor laws, regulations, and other relevant issues to capacitate the Joint Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict.

The task force also sought the DOLE’s active participation and support to the different clusters and sub-clusters of which the Department is a member, such as the Basic Services Cluster; Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Empowerment Cluster; Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program and Amnesty Program Cluster.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1207574

Calayan execs back establishment of military facility

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 10, 2023): Calayan execs back establishment of military facility (By Leilanie Adriano)

CONSULTATIVE MEETING. Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. (left) consults with the people of Calayan on a remote island in Cagayan province on Wednesday (Aug. 9, 2023). Also in the photo are Calayan Mayor Joseph Llopis (center) and Maj. General Fernyl Buca, Northern Luzon Commander of the Philippine Air Force. (Photo by Leilanie G. Adriano)

CALAYAN, Cagayan – Officials in a remote island of Calayan in Cagayan province south of Taiwan have thrown their support to the proposed establishment of a military facility soon.

Calayan Mayor Joseph Llopis, a retired pilot of the Philippine Air Force, said this during a consultative meeting held at the session hall of Calayan on Wednesday.

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and other military top brass based in Northern Luzon were present during the meeting.

As a gesture of support, Calayan town, through its town council, has approved the donation of a 25-hectare government lot in favor of the development of a military facility to secure the Calayan border at the forefront of the country’s territory.

“All of us are in favor of donating the 25-hectare lot for the establishment of a military base here. Even if we are away physically from the central government, we are aware of what is happening around and we know that our place is a critical area because of the issues of the West Philippine Sea and Taiwan,” Llopis said during the consultative meeting.

He expressed confidence that the people’s rights and welfare will be safeguarded.

Before the construction of the facility, Teodoro visited the island to assure local communities in the area as he cited the need to converge all efforts for the strategic development of Calayan and all other islands of the Philippines being threatened by both internal and external factors.

“I am here to start a dialogue with you because the president has said that we should protect our territory and that is what we are going to do,” Teodoro said as he sought the help of the community on how to speed up recovery efforts after the island was recently hit by a super typhoon.

Teodoro added that this would also ensure prompt government response during natural disasters and humanitarian missions, guaranteeing the welfare of the people in the northern Philippine region.

Troops from the Marine Battalion Landing Team-10 are also stationed in Calayan which is a “preferred venue” for various military exercises, including those with the United States and Japan.

To aid typhoon victims in the area, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. initially turned over PHP3 million to Calayan town during his recent visit to Tuguegarao, Cagayan.

On top of that, the Department of Social Welfare and Development and other inter-government agencies have delivered food aid and other essential supplies.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1207538

3 NPA rebels surrender to gov't troops in Masbate

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 10, 2023): 3 NPA rebels surrender to gov't troops in Masbate (By Connie Calipay)

SURRENDER. The Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO5) reported on Thursday (Aug. 10, 2023) that three members of the New People's Army (NPA) voluntarily surrendered on Tuesday to government troops in Cataingan town, Masbate province. The surrenderers are now under the custody of PRO5's Regional Intelligence Unit-Provincial Intelligence Team-Masbate for proper disposition. (PNA file photo by Connie Calipay)

LEGAZPI CITY – Three members of the New People's Army (NPA) have voluntarily surrendered to government troops on Tuesday in Cataingan, Masbate province, the Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO5) reported Thursday.

In a report, Lt. Col Malu Calubaquib, PRO5 spokesperson, only identified the surrenderers as Ka Willy, 66; Ka Ludi, 54; and Ka Nonoy, 44; all from Cataingan town.

"These individuals, who were previously affiliated with the NPA under the command of Rogelio Suson, also known as Manong CO, with Platoon 1, Larangan 1, Komite ng Larangan Guerilla -South, Sub Regional Committee 4, Bicol Regional Party Committee (BRPC), operating in the 3rd District of Masbate," she said.

Calubaquib said the surrenderers are now under the custody of the Regional Intelligence Unit-Provincial Intelligence Team-Masbate for proper disposition.

"Series of debriefings for the rebel returnees are being conducted. They shall also be assisted in their reintegration into mainstream society through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP). With this, they shall be provided financial and livelihood assistance, as well as other forms of support from the government," she said.

The PRO5 and the Philippine Army welcomed the former rebels and ensured that their welfare would be safeguarded.

"The unit also urged the other lawless elements to return to the fold of the law and accept the assistance that the government is ready to give them. It also guarantees that opportunities will be made available to them as a form of help as they unfold a new chapter of their lives," Calubaquib said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1207584

OPAPRU, Agusan Norte to open peace center for former rebels

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 10, 2023): OPAPRU, Agusan Norte to open peace center for former rebels (By Alexander Lopez)

PEACE CENTER. Staff from the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) in Eastern Mindanao, led by Jesylita Encabo (left) and Anne Uytico (right) meet on Wednesday (Aug. 9, 2023) with lawyer Czarina Furia (center), Agusan del Norte provincial legal officer, and Silver Joy Tejano (2nd left), the provincial social welfare office head, to finalize the opening of the Kagawasan 143 Peace Center in Bancasi, Butuan City. The center will cater to the needs of the former rebels including the processing of their benefits under the government’s E-CLIP program. (Photo courtesy of OPAPRU Eastern Mindanao)

BUTUAN CITY – The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) in Eastern Mindanao and the Agusan del Norte provincial government are set open a peace center here for New People’s Army (NPA) surrenderers.

Set to open in September, the peace center called “Kagawasan 143” or Freedom 143, will serve as the provincial government’s contribution to enhancing the implementation of the government peace programs for former rebels.

The launching of the peace center will coincide with the celebration of the 2023 National Peace Consciousness Month.

“Beyond catering to the needs of FRs (former rebels), the peace center will act as a pivotal hub for coordinating operations to ensure the seamless execution of our comprehensive peace programs and services, OPAPRU Eastern Mindanao Director Elisa Evangelista-Lapiña said in a statement Thursday.

The center, she said, will provide health, psychosocial and legal assistance, counseling sessions, skills training, livelihood and employment referrals for NPA surrenderers. It will also serve as a venue for the processing of benefits of the former NPA combatants from the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program.

On Wednesday, the provincial government and OPAPRU Eastern Mindanao conducted a coordination meeting to finalize the opening of the center next month.

“The center will also facilitate and assist barangay local government units and other local and national agencies to ensure the success of the Transformation Program (TP) of OPAPRU. Our focus extends beyond immediate services, as we work hand-in-hand with local authorities and other stakeholders to guarantee the efficacy of the TP,” Lapiña said.

She said the establishment of the center is aligned with the Marcos administration's goal to maintain the progress of peace programs in the region.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1207567

Gov’t troops pursue NPA members after northern Negros encounter

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 10, 2023): Gov’t troops pursue NPA members after northern Negros encounter (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

The Calatrava Municipal Police Station in Negros Occidental. (File photo courtesy of NOCPPO-Calatrava MPS)

BACOLOD CITY – Joint police and military forces are pursuing members of the New People’s Army (NPA) involved in the encounter that killed a police officer and wounded two others in a remote village of Calatrava, Negros Occidental on Wednesday.

Col. Leo Pamittan, provincial director of Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (NOCPPO), said Thursday the operation is being conducted by personnel of the Philippine National Police Special Action Force and Regional Mobile Force Battalion and soldiers of the Philippine Army.

“Our hot pursuit operation is ongoing. They’re still there,” he added.

The NOCPPO has yet to release photos of the incident as of posting time.

Killed in action was Cpl. Jaime Nuñez while those wounded were deputy station chief, Capt. Jesus Alba, and Cpl. Dennis Nasis, all of the Calatrava Municipal Police Station.

The incident took place at Sitio Icogan, Barangay Minapasuk while the troops were on their way to serve arrest warrants against rebels identified as Darry Dayawan, who is facing a murder case, and Charity Amacan, who is charged with unlawful possession of an explosive.

Pamittan said the troops were passing through a secluded area when they encountered the rebels.

In a statement on Thursday, the Police Regional Office-Western Visayas (PRO-6) mourned the death of Nuñez as it condemned the terroristic act perpetrated by the NPA.

“PRO-6 is saddened with the demise of Cpl. Nuñez and the injury incurred by two others, who performed their duty with zeal and dedication to deliver justice to the victim of crime and their families,” Brig. Gen. Sidney Villaflor, the regional director, said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1207583