Bulatlat: No encounter? | 3 Masbate residents killed by soldiers, says NPA

Posted to the pro-CPP/NDF/NPA propaganda outlet Bulatlat (Sep 6, 2023): No encounter? | 3 Masbate residents killed by soldiers, says NPA (By JACINTO LINGATONG)

SANTA CRUZ, Laguna – Three residents of Guindawhan village in the town of Pio V. Corpus, Masbate were killed on Aug. 30 by soldiers belonging to the 2nd Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army, said the New People’s Army – Masbate in a statement.

This contradicts an earlier statement of the Philippine military that they were killed during an armed encounter with NPA fighters.

In a statement, the Army’s 2nd ID claimed that three NPA fighters were killed after a 10-minute exchange of gunfire with their troops around 5:45 a.m. on Aug. 30.

However, NPA-Masbate said in their report that the victims, identified as Amy Olivar and spouses Julie and Jovie Rabadon, were killed in their home, describing their gunshot wounds as fatal shots.

“The military was responsible for the deaths of these civilians,” the group added.

Also last month, on Aug. 19, soldiers from the 96th IB and the local police were involved in the killing of three women in Barangay Jagnaan, San Jacinto, Ticao Island, Masbate.

Similar to the Aug. 30 incident, authorities claimed that these killings took place during an armed clash, which NPA fighters also denied.

The victims were identified as Jelyn Guis Dejomo, Sheryl Salazar Dejomo, and Divina Lubiano Ajitan.

“The regime of Marcos Jr. bears significant responsibility for the widespread slaughter in the province, primarily targeting the peasant masses. Behind this are the continuous maneuvers of his favored companies, Filminera Resources Corporation, Ecotourism Empark, and the construction of an international airport,” Pambansang Katipunan ng mga Magbubukid (PKM) – Masbate, underground revolutionary group of peasants, said.

Bicol is among the regions where soldiers have been massively deployed under the previous Duterte administration through his Memorandum No. 32. Such deployment has since resulted in human rights violations, including arrests and extrajudicial killings.

As of June 30, human rights group Karaparan said there were 16 extrajudicial killings in the Bicol region. This is second to Negros province, which is also covered by Memorandum No. 32.

“We must unite our strength and advance campaigns to remove the soldiers and police who are a plague on the lives and livelihoods of the masses. More than ever, the Masbateños must continue to support armed resistance in the province,” PKM-Masbate said.

https://www.bulatlat.com/2023/09/06/no-encounter-3-masbate-residents-killed-by-soldiers-says-npa/

55 Negros Occidental barangays eyed as areas of concern

From the Philippine Star (Sep 6, 2023): 55 Negros Occidental barangays eyed as areas of concern (By Roel Pareño, Gilbert Bayoran)

Screengrab from Google Maps shows the province of Negros Occidental.
Google Maps

MANILA, Philippines — Citing sightings of New People’s Army (NPA) rebels, the Provincial Joint Security Coordinating Center (PJSCC) said 55 barangays in Negros Occidental should be categorized as areas of concern in the forthcoming barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections.

Brig. Gen. Orlando Edralin, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, said the PJSCC is leaving the matter to the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

He said the 55 barangays had earlier been cleared of communist rebels, but there were renewed attempts by remnants of the NPA to recover their lost territories.

He stressed the need for law enforcers and the public to remain vigilant against rebel infiltration, especially in communities that have been declared NPA-free.

The Comelec said areas of election concern or election hotspots are places where there is potential violence or tension among local candidates, presence of armed rebels and a history of election-related violence.

Edralin said NPA rebels in Negros make their presence felt by collecting so-called permit to campaign or win fees.

Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police deployed 150 PNP personnel in Malabang, Lanao del Sur following violence that marred the filing of certificates of candidacy.

PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo said the additional personnel would assist the local police in maintaining peace and order in the town.

The PNP said it has recorded eight election-related incidents, including shootings, stabbings and grave threat, in Bicol, Eastern Visayas, Zamboanga peninsula and Soccsksargen.
Loose guns surrendered

In North Cotabato, barangay captains in 15 villages turned over on Sunday 27 loose firearms surrendered by residents.

The unlicensed guns were surrendered under the government’s Balik Baril program, Maj. Andrew Linao, spokesman for the Western Mindanao Command, said.

He said the guns came from 13 special geographic area barangays in Midsalip town and two in Aleosan.

The military is hoping the turnover of the loose firearms would prevent election-related violent incidents in the barangays.

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2023/09/06/2294088/55-negros-occidental-barangays-eyed-areas-concern

EASTMINCOM: NFEM welcomes aboard Malaysian ships KD Selangor (F176), KD Sundang (112) for MALPHI LAUT 24/23

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Sep 3, 2023): NFEM welcomes aboard Malaysian ships KD Selangor (F176), KD Sundang (112) for MALPHI LAUT 24/23

Eastern Mindanao Command, AFP
·
Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao
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WELCOME ABOARD | Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao welcomes aboard KD Selangor (F176), the new generation offshore patrol vessel and KD Sundang (112), the littoral mission ship of the Royal Malaysian Navy. The two(2) RMN ships will participate in the Maritime Training Activity MALPHI LAUT 24/23.

#MALPHI LAUT
#NavalDiplomacy 
#ProtectingtheSeasSecuringOurFuture
#ModernandMultiCapablePHNavy
#AFPyoucanTRUST

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=310193588331701&set=pcb.310193688331691

https://www.facebook.com/eastmincomafp/

EASTMINCOM: 8th Infantry (Dependable) Battalion conducted Youth Leadership Summit (YLS) 2023

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Sep 3, 2023): 8th Infantry (Dependable) Battalion conducted Youth Leadership Summit (YLS) 2023 

Eastern Mindanao Command, AFP

8th Infantry "Dependable" Battalion, Philippine Army
·
Look ‖ In its aim to Prevent and Counter Violent Extremism (PCVE), and fight against Illegal Drugs, the 8th Infantry (Dependable) Battalion, headed by its Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Anthony A. Bacus, in partnership with the Department of Interior Local Government (DILG), Propelling Our Inherited Nation Through our Youth (Bukidnon POINTY), and the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK), conducted Youth Leadership Summit (YLS) 2023 with the theme “Green Skill for Youth Towards A Sustainable World”. The activity was integrated within the week-long celebration of “Linggo ng Kabataan” held at Brgy Kisolon, Sumilao and Brgy St Peter, Malaybalay City, both of Bukidnon.

The 3-day leadership summit included lectures on Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism, Leadership Principles, Role of the Youth in the Community, Values Formation, Mental Health Awareness, Criminality and Drug Prevention, as well as outdoor activities like Flag Making, Slogan Making, Taebo/Zumba, Amazing Race, and other Team Building Activities.

Lt Col Bacus expressed, “Youth Leadership Summit intends to empower the youth to become advocators of peace and promote character-based leadership skills, uplift their awareness on the roles of the youth in nation building, inculcate the virtues of patriotism and nationalism, and also to educate and provide clear and actionable guidance for safety precautions”

The two Local Chief Executives of the said city and municipality who unwaveringly supported the YLS graced the events at their respective venues. Hon. Jay Warren R. Pabillaran, the City Mayor of Malaybalay, during his speech at Barangay St. Peter, encouraged the participants to maximize learning in all the activities to be undertaken during the leadership summit which will be essential to the shaping of one’s character. Likewise, Hon. Jose Antonio A. Villo, the Municipal Mayor of Sumilao, during his speech at Barangay Kisolon, stated the importance of youth in Nation Building, as our National Hero, Dr. Jose Rizal once said, “Ang Kabataan ang Pag-asa ng Bayan.”

The Youth Leadership Summit held at Brgy Kisolon, Sumilao, (August 19-21, 2023) and Brgy St Peter, Malayblay City, (August 26-28, 2023) both in the province of Bukidnon were deemed successful thanks to the unwavering support of both municipalities and the host barangays, most especially to the youth who energetically attended and participated the 3-day summit.

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=685141093652989&set=pcb.685141316986300

https://www.facebook.com/eastmincomafp/

EASTMINCOM: 50 Mass Base Supporters and Militia ng Bayan (MB) withdrew their support from CNT in Surigao de Sur

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Sep 4, 2023): 50 Mass Base Supporters and Militia ng Bayan (MB) withdrew their support from CNT in Surigao de Sur

Eastern Mindanao Command, AFP

CMOU-Eastern Mindanao, Philippine Navy
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50 Mass Base Supporters and Militia ng Bayan (MB) withdrew their support from CNT in Surigao de Sur

The Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao (NFEM) through Civil Military Operations Unit-Eastern Mindanao together with Naval Intelligence Support Group-Eastern Mindanao in coordination with 36IB,

Philippine Army, Tandag City Police Station, Provincial Social Welfare Development Office (PSWDO), Surigao del Sur, National Indigenous Peoples Commission, Tandag City Agriculture's Office, and Barangay Council of Buenavista successfully facilitated the Pledge of Allegiance Ceremony and Withdrawal of Support of the CPP-NPA Terrorist (CNT) Mass Base Supporters and Militia ng Bayan held at Barangay Buenavista Covered Court, Tandag City, Surigao del Sur on August 30, 2023.

50 CPP-NPA Terrorist (CNT) Mass Base Supporters and Militia ng Bayan members voluntarily surrendered to Preventing and Countering Radicalization and Violent Extremism (PCRVE) Team deployed in Brgy Buenavista, Tandag City, SDS. The surrenderees vowed to support the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Philippine National Police by providing vital information in the continuing drive to end the local communist armed conflicts in their locality.

One of the surrenderees expressed guilt for giving in the demands of the CNTs which brought nothing but fear in their community.

"Usa ako ka tribal chieftain kapitan mao ang magdumala ug magpasabot sa mga kalihukan pinaagi sa amung kalambuan sa amung mga IPs. Ug sa kaniadtong mga panahon sa kabukiran kami nagpuyo ang tinuod ang amung panginabuhi kami mag uuma dili kalikayan niabot ang panahon dunay mga armadong niabot kanamu nasugo gayud kami tungud kay mahadlok gayud kami. Ang ilang rason tabangan sila sa pag igo ug palit ug bugas para sa ilang pagkaon. Wala ako magbalibad kay ako sibilyan man. Nisugot gayud ako sa paghatud kanila sa mga pipila ka beses tungod kay sila nakita nako mga armado. Ang pag tan aw nako armado NPA diay dili kay sundalong armado, NPA. Sa tinud anay sa katu nga side pipila ka beses na ako mulabay sa naa pa kami sa kabukiran naa sila diha gisugo gayud kami permamente agian kami tungod kay mahadlok man kami kanila. Sa pipila ka beses nibaba na kami diri sa barangay tungod kay nahadlok kami na basi lugaran kami ug mabiktima kami didtu sa ilaha.”

He also thankful to the Philippine Navy, Local Government of Tandag City and other goverment agencies for the awareness, intervention and opportunity given to them to renew their lives back to the fold of the law.

“Mapasalamatun kamig dako sa Philippine Navy pag abot diri niini tungod kay nihatag sila ug mga pag pasabot kanamo alang sa mga proyekto na angay nilang itabang tungod sa among kalisod ug kapobrehon."

During Ceremony, Surigao del Sur PSWDO and Tandag City Agriculture’ s Office handed over two (2) wheelchairs, 50 School Supplies, 50 Hygiene Kit, 50 Free Range Chicken, 200 Fruit Bearing Trees, and 500 Abaca Seedlings to the surrenderees.

A dialogue was also held in order to promote understanding, address grievances, and explore avenues for peace, development, and reintegration. It recognizes the importance of inclusive engagement and seeks to provide opportunities for all stakeholders to contribute to the resolution of conflicts and the building of a peaceful and prosperous society.

Guardian of the Seas: Ensuring National Sovereignty, Security and Stability.

#PCRVE@BrgyBuenavistaTandagCity
#ModernandMulitCapablePHNavy
#PHNavyCare
#AFPyoucanTrust
#ilovecmo

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=729780385828950&set=pcb.729729389167383

https://www.facebook.com/eastmincomafp/

EASTMINCOM: Royal Malaysian Navy ships arrive in Eastern Mindanao

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Sep 4, 2023): Royal Malaysian Navy ships arrive in Eastern Mindanao

Eastern Mindanao Command, AFP
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Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao
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ROYAL MALAYSIAN NAVY SHIPS ARRIVE IN EASTERN MINDANAO

Panacan, Davao City – The Philippine Navy will host this year’s 24th iteration of Maritime Training Activity of the Royal Malaysian Navy and the Philippine Navy dubbed as MALPHI LAUT 24/23 in Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao on September 4 to September 8, 2023.

This week-long maritime training activity will involve sailors and naval special operations forces from the Royal Malaysian Navy and Philippine Navy operating jointly on land, air, and at sea. This year marks the first conduct of MTA series in the Eastern Mindanao area of responsibility which aims to enhance combined planning, tactical and operational level training and level up interoperability between PN and RMN.

An Arrival Ceremony was tendered to the participating Royal Malaysian Navy ships, KD Selangor (F176), the new generation patrol vessel of RMN and KD Sundang (112), a littoral mission ship, at Captain Feranil Pier, Naval Station Felix Apolinario, Panacan, Davao City on September 3, 2023. The RMN delegation was received by the Commander, Naval Task Force 71, CAPT CONSTANCIO ARTURO M REYES JR PN(GSC), together with the Commanding Officers of the participating PN vessels.

Afterwards, an operations planning was conducted at Hqs NFEM which discussed the harbor and at-sea activities designed to allow both navies to undertake complex maritime training, utilizing diverse naval platforms and operating areas.

The Philippine-Malaysian Navy’s collaboration has served as a cornerstone for peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. The PN and RMN are committed to strengthen its longstanding alliance, reinforce maritime security efforts, and address common border threats and challenges.

#ModernandMultiCapablePHNavy
#AFPyoucanTRUST
#ProtectingtheSeasSecuringOurFuture
#NavalDiplomacy
#RoyalMalaysianNavy







https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=310716511612742&set=pcb.310716748279385

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PN, Malaysian Navy hold week-long naval exercises

From the Business Mirror (Sep 4, 2023): PN, Malaysian Navy hold week-long naval exercises (By Rex Anthony Naval)


As part of its efforts to enhance its cooperation and interoperability with its Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) counterparts, the Philippine Navy (PN) will be hosting the 24th iteration of “MALPHI LAUT” from September 4 to 8.

The activities will be held at the Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao’s (NFEM) area of jurisdiction and aims to enhance combined planning, tactical and operational level training and level up interoperability between the two naval services.

“This week-long maritime training activity will involve sailors and naval special operations forces from the RMN and PN operating jointly on land, air, and at sea,” NFEM spokesperson Lt. Cmdr. Jerome Bryan Mauring said in a statement issued on Sunday.

He added this iteration marks the first conduct of maritime training activity (MTA) series in the Eastern Mindanao area of responsibility.

Mauring said an “arrival ceremony” was tendered to the participating RMN ships, KD Selangor (F176), its newest generation patrol, and KD Sundang (112), a littoral mission ship, at Captain Feranil Pier, Naval Station Felix Apolinario, Panacan, Davao City on September 3.

“The RMN delegation was received by the Commander, Naval Task Force 71, Captain Constancio Arturo M. Reyes Jr., together with the commanding officers of the participating PN vessels,” he added.

Afterwards, an operations planning was conducted at NFEM headquarters in Davao City where the harbor and at-sea activities designed to allow both navies to undertake complex maritime training, utilizing diverse naval platforms and operating areas.

The PN and RMN’s collaboration has served as a cornerstone for peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

The PN and RMN are committed to strengthen their longstanding alliance, reinforce maritime security efforts, and address common border threats and challenges.

https://businessmirror.com.ph/2023/09/04/pn-malaysian-navy-hold-week-long-naval-exercises/?fbclid=IwAR3U5bUHHv4IGfRalPzbxIl-WTb5VKywKg4t-VPa0k_l98_hfJ6bHrQVgc4

Former rebel shines as distinguished soldier

From the Manila Times (Sep 2, 2023): Former rebel shines as distinguished soldier (By Franco Jose C. Baroña)

ONE of the awardees in the inaugural staging of The Manila Times' "Tribute to Soldiers" was a former rebel who abandoned the communist cause to become decorated enlisted personnel and an esteemed member of his community.

After turning his back on radical ideologies, Sgt. William Tello Jr., who was also once a member of the Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (Cafgu), has since led successful combat and intelligence missions against communist insurgents under the Philippine Army's 4th Infantry Division's (4ID) 36th Infantry Battalion (36IB) in Surigao del Sur.

A SOLDIER’S STORY Sgt. William Tello Jr. (center) of the Philippine Army’s 4th Infantry Division’s 36th Infantry Battalion was a former rebel-turned-soldier who won the Distinguished Achievement Award in the Contribution to the Combat Zone category in the recently concluded ‘Tribute to Soldiers’ awarding ceremony at The Manila Hotel on Monday, Aug. 28, 2023. With him were Brig. Gen. Arvin Lagamon (second from left), commander of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Civil Relations Service, The Manila Times Chairman Emeritus Dr. Dante A. Ang Sr. and The Manila Times Chairman and CEO Dante ‘Klink’ Ang 2nd. PHOTO BY MIKE ALQUINTO

Tello, who enlisted in the Army in July 2013, was given recognition, along with nine other enlisted personnel from another military service, at the "Tribute to Soldiers" ceremony held at the Manila Hotel last August 28, which coincided with the commemoration of National Heroes Day.

He received the award from Vice President Sara Duterte, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. and The Manila Times Chairman Emeritus Dr. Dante A. Ang Sr.

Another member of the Philippine Army, Staff Sergeant (SSg.) Roseller Gozo of the 8th Infantry Battalion in Bukidnon, also won the Distinguished Achievement Award in Innovation in Administrative and Logistics Functions category.

4ID Commander Maj. Gen. Jose Maria Cuerpo 2nd said the award is a testament to Tello's exemplary bravery, devotion and commitment to duty.

"His accomplishment not only boosts morale within his unit but also serves as a testament to the commitment and sacrifices made by all soldiers who selflessly serve their country by ensuring its safety and security," Cuerpo said.

Tello also demonstrated outstanding achievement for community service as anchor/broadcaster of the unit's radio program and speaker during information awareness campaigns aimed at dissuading the youth from joining the insurgents.

He was also recognized as the "Best CAA" during the 2013 Philippine Army Day and the 4ID's Enlisted Personnel of the Year 2022 during the Division's 53rd Founding Anniversary held on February 3.

Tello was also named the Best Enlisted Personnel of the Year during the Army's 126th anniversary celebration last March, where President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. presented him with the Command Plaque.

Gozo, as section chief of the Communication Section in Signal Platoon, Platoon Headquarters of 8IB, exhibited meritorious performance of duty during the previous year.

Maj. Francisco Garello Jr., chief of the 4ID Public Affairs Office, said Gozo ensured that all communications and essential equipment of his unit were serviceable and mission-capable.

He also received numerous awards and letters of commendation from brigade and battalion commanders last year for his "invaluable performance and devotion to duty that significantly contributed to the overall accomplishments of the unit mission."

As an acknowledgment of 4ID's winning the prestigious awards, out of many nominees among the units of the armed forces, Cuerpo awarded a Plaque of Recognition to Gozo and Tello.

The 4ID commander also praised The Manila Times for its initiative to give "fitting and significant recognition that honors soldiers who demonstrated outstanding achievements."

"The trust and support of the civilian stakeholders whom we oath to protect and secure is what motivates us to do more above and beyond our duties and responsibilities," Cuerpo said.

"Recognizing our soldiers will surely boost our confidence and morale. This will further inspire every soldier to strive for the best in their own respective and unique way. Rest assured that your soldiers, particularly in 4ID, will strive even more for excellence to perform our mandate in the service of the Filipino people," he said.

The "Tribute to Soldiers" was spearheaded by The Manila Times and The Manila Times TV in collaboration with the AFP to raise public awareness of the extraordinary and everyday heroism as well as the sacrifices of Filipino soldiers.

Aside from 4ID, other AFP units fielded nominees for three categories and two special awards: combat, administrative and logistics, and community service, while special awards are for education and for best unit.

The distinguished achievement awardees for their Contribution to the Combat Zone were Tello and S2IT Jaime Caguioa both of the Philippine Army, and SSg. Darryl B. Gacad of the Philippine Air Force. Aside from Gozo, recognized for Innovations in Administrative and Logistic Functions were DP2 Dizon Vallesteros of the Philippine Navy and TSgt. Bernard Magpantay of the Philippine Air Force.

Receiving recognition for their Outstanding Community Service were Army SSg. Ephraim Mission Jr., SSg. Michael Rayanon of the Philippine Navy Marines, and Air Force TSgt. Liezel Eranista.

Given recognition for her Outstanding Achievement in Education was YN2 Lilane Muring of the Philippine Navy.

The Best Unit award went to the Air Force's Tactical Operations Wing West.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2023/09/02/news/national/former-rebel-shines-as-distinguished-soldier/1908170?fbclid=IwAR37gg0AN_2cS5r6BOc8xDA2ZZMrTa56BmcnVSN4JYhR4tT_5GUbOHHoSpc

NDF: NDFP to Año: Plan to defeat CPP-NPA-NDF within Marcos Jr’s term is ‘ridiculous’

Propaganda statement posted to the National Democratic Front of the Philippines Website (Sep 1, 2023): NDFP to Año: Plan to defeat CPP-NPA-NDF within Marcos Jr’s term is ‘ridiculous’

“Año must be delusional. The target to defeat the CPP-NPA-NDF within the current administration is just outright ridiculous,” stated National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) negotiating panel interim chairperson Julie De Lima in response to a recent remark made by Eduardo Año, National Security Adviser (NSA). Last 31 Aug in a press briefing, Año stated that the armed revolution led by the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) ‘will end’ within Marcos Jr’s term.

Año’s grandiose claims of ‘strategic victory’ over the CPP-NPA-NDF is belied by the fact that the AFP continues to deploy troops daily to NPA guerilla zones across the country, and that the GRP is allotting almost Php9 billion funding for the notorious NTF-Elcac.JULIE DE LIMA, NDFP NEGOTIATING PANEL INTERIM CHAIRPERSON

“Try as it may, the US-Marcos fascist regime is unequipped to defeat the world’s longest-running armed revolution. Like his predecessors, Marcos Jr. and his minions will inevitably fail in his attempts to crush the revolutionary movement of the Filipino people,” De Lima added.

De Lima also criticized the GRP’s National Security Policy (NSP) published last 10 August. Año, as security adviser leads the implementation of the NSP.

The NSP declared “the peace process will always be preferred over war” and commits to observing civil and human rights, and the international humanitarian law (IHL).” In response, De Lima reiterates the NDFP’s openness “to the possibility of resuming the peace negotiations with the GRP.”

“But from their relentless violations of IHL in the form of aerial bombings and indiscriminate attacks against communities, to their complete disregard of landmark agreements made during the GRP-NDF peace negotiations, the US-Marcos regime’s anti-peace character thus far betrays its own pronouncements,” added De Lima.

“In fact, the GRP is a serial violator of the IHL. The killing of at least 5 NDF consultants in the past year including Benito and Wilma Tiamzon, Ericson Acosta, Randall Echanis and many others; the enforced disappearances of NDF negotiators, illegal detention and arrests are all proof of the GRP’s blatant disregard for peace and international humanitarian law,” said De Lima.

De Lima further criticized the GRP’s attacks on communities: “In line with their counterrevolutionary objectives patterned after the US Counterinsurgency Guide, the GRP instead targets civilians and legal democratic organizations making no distinction between armed combatants and local populations.”

“Año’s statement also comes at a time when the Marcos-Duterte regime is rushing to shift its priority to border defense against Chinese incursions consistent with the US imperialist ‘island chain strategy’ to contain China,” De Lima ended.

https://ndfp.info/ndfp-to-ano-plan-to-defeat-cpp-npa-ndf-within-marcos-jrs-term-is-ridiculous/

CPP/NDF-PKM-Sorsogon: 22nd IB PA, salot sa buhay at kabuhayan ng mga Sorsoganon

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Sep 5, 2023): 22nd IB PA, salot sa buhay at kabuhayan ng mga Sorsoganon (22nd IB PA, plague on the lives and livelihood of Sorsoganons)

 


Pambansang Katipunan ng mga Magbubukid - Sorsogon

NDF-Bicol

National Democratic Front of the Philippines

September 05, 2023

Kinukundena namin sa pinakamataas na antas ang patuloy na paglabag sa karapatang tao ng tropa ng 22nd IBPA at sa pagbulabog sa paghahanapbuhay ng mga Sorsoganon sa mga bayan ng Barcelona, Gubat, Irosin, Juban at Bulan.

Sa paulit ulit na pagpapatawag ng mga ito sa mga sibilyan sa walang katuturan na patipon ng mga militar upang takutin, magpasumpa ng katapatan sa bulok na estado at magsunog ng kung anu-anong bandila ay matinding abala naman sa hanapbuhay at takot ang nararanasan ng mga magsasaka.

Sa naging patipon ng 22nd IB sa Barangay Sangat, Gubat nitong ika-10 ng Agosto , at ilang residente ng Barangay San Bartolome, Sta. Magdalena at Barangay San Antonio, Barcelona noong ika-20 ng Agosto, ay sapilitang pinasumpa ng katapatan ang mga sibilyan at nagsunog ng mga bandila habang binabantaan sila na ituturing na rin ng mga militar na “NPA” ang sinuman na tumulong o magbigay kahit tubig sa mga rebolusyonaryo. Ikatlong beses ng “panunumpa” ito ng mga residente ng Barangay San Antonio.

Kasalukuyang naman nag ooperasyon ang mga pasistang militar sa Barangay Olandia, San Antonio, Putiao at Sta. Lourdes sa bayan ng Barcelona; sa Barangay Manapao sa bayan ng Gubat; sa Barangay Sipaya, Barangay Calateo, Barangay Maalo, Barangay Calmayon, Brgy Lajong sa bayan ng Juban; sa Barangay Cogon sa bayan ng Bulusan; sa Barangay Tongdol at Barangay Gabao sa bayan ng Irosin; at sa Barangay Calpi at Barangay Cadandanan sa bayan ng Bulan.

Halos di na makapunta sa pinagtatrabahuan ang mga magsasaka sa mga barangay na nilulunsaran ng operasyon dahil sa matinding takot na baka pag intiresan sila o harasin ng mga ito.

Takot rin ang hatid sa mga residente ng pagtayo ng maliit na detatsment ng 22nd IB sa Barangay Bagacay, Barcelona at sa planong pagtatayo ng detatsment sa Barangay Sangat, Gubat.

Apektado naman ang pag-aaral ng mga estudyante ng San Isidro National High School at San Isidro Elementary School sa bayan ng Bulan dahil sa walang patumanggang pagpapaputok ng mga militar sa loob ng kampo ng 22nd IB sa barangay. Ayon sa ilang mga residente, hindi na nila pinapasok ang kanilang mga anak sa mga naturang eskwelahan dahil sa takot na hatid ng presensya ng mga militar at sa posibilidad na madamay sila sa barilan.

Kaugnay nito, mariin kaming nananawagan sa mamamayang Sorsoganon na patuloy na manindigan at labanan ang mas lumalalang militarisasyon sa prubinsya. Sama-sama nating alpasan ang takot at tuloy-tuloy na i-expose ang kahit anong uri ng pang-aabuso ng mga militar. Nananawagan din kami sa mga residente ng mga barangay na pinagooperasyunan ng mga militar na makipagtulungan sa mga rebolusyonaryong organisasyong pangmasa maging sa Bagong Hukbong Bayan upang higit pang pataasin ang antas ng pakikibaka laban sa mga pasista, mamamatay-tao at mga halimaw na tropa ng 22nd IBPA.

Pambansang Katipunan ng mga Magsasaka-Sorsogon

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/22nd-ib-pa-salot-sa-buhay-at-kabuhayan-ng-mga-sorsoganon/

CPP/NPA-Quezon: The NPA never left

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Sep 4, 2023): The NPA never left

 


Cleo del Mundo

Spokesperson

NPA-Quezon (Apolonio Mendoza Command)

Southern Tagalog Regional Operational Command (Melito Glor Command)

New People's Army

September 04, 2023

The banner story of a national broadsheet (Philippine Star https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2023/09/02/2293347/npa-launches-offensive-vs-govt-insurgency-free-quezon-province) last September 2 entitled “NPA launches offensive vs gov’t in ‘insurgency free’ Quezon province” gave a very clear picture of that momentous event in the province.

The news article captured the exact contrasting image of a revolutionary guerilla front in an “insurgency free” area.

The NPA were there the whole time. We never left.

The Philippine Army’s top brass down to their lieutenants continue to spout out-of-tune lies that the police and top local executives sing more ridiculously off-key with—the suspected armed group that launched the attack were not from Quezon province.

They, by their own doing left themselves with no other choice but to choke on their own ludicrousness after declaring Quezon last June as “insurgency free” .

Gov. Helen Tan has always been a staunch supporter of the Joint Campaign Plan-Kapanatagan of the military and police even before she became the provincial governor in 2022. During her term as Quezon’s 4th District Representative, she has put hundreds if not thousands of lives of her constituents in danger by actively campaigning for forced and fake surrenderees in the district.

Under the corruption-ridden Barangay Development Program (BDP) of the NTF-ELCAC, a whopping P20 million per barangay is at stake for every village that will be declared as “conflict manageable and ready for development”.

By shamelessly conniving with NTF-ELCAC and 201st Infantry Brigade, Gov. Tan not only got the chance to dip her blood-stained hands in BDP funds but has effectively paved the way (pun intended) for her multimillion contractor husband Engineer Ronnel Tan, who moonlights as Regional Director of DPWH in Region I.

If recollections may vary, let me refresh Gov. Tan and 85th IBPA’s muddled memories. It was only last month that elements of 85th IBPA conducted aggressive operations in Tagkawayan against the NPA guerillas in the area. Pictures and nom de guerre of officials of the Apolonio Mendoza Command were posted. To my great amusement, my name was on top of the list.

Why in the world were they hunting NPA guerillas of Quezon last month in Tagkawayan and then denying our very presence after the successful ambush in the municipality?

We know why.

Gov. Tan and the 85th IBPA are such bare-faced liars that their web of lies are fastly catching up to them, rendering them as trying-hard, unfortunate, unfunny clowns.

Gov. Tan failed miserably in her attempt at comedy. She should have learned by now that there are no amount of focused military operations is going to solve the armed conflict that has been raging in the countryside.

We are kindly advising her to instead seriously focus on the root cause of the war that the peasantry of the province are more than willing to partake in. She should instead address the landlessness of the poor coconut farmers. This is the most fundamental reason why they chose to take up arms, to regain their farmlands. This is an inevitable requisite to attain just and lasting peace in the country.

The recent tactical offensive against the Philippine Army was the demand of the people of Quezon. Its resounding success was made possible under the leadership of the CPP and the overwhelming support of the revolutionary mass base among the peasantry.

The same peasants Gov. Tan has been feeding to the fascist dogs of NTF- ELCAC and 85th IBPA know their enemy. They are now celebrating the success of their army that never left and is here to stay with them to carry the armed revolution WITH and FOR them.#

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/the-npa-never-left/

2ID: 59th Infantry "Protector" Battalion conducted a ant-terrorism symposium in Batangas City

 Posted to the 2nd Infantry "Jungle Fighter" Division Facebook Page (Sep 1, 2023): 59th Infantry "Protector" Battalion conducted a ant-terrorism symposium in Batangas City

2nd Infantry "Jungle Fighter" Division, Philippine Army

The troops of 59th Infantry "Protector" Battalion conducted a symposium aimed at broadening their knowledge regarding RA 11479 "Anti Terrorism Act of 2020" and RA 10168 "Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012" last August 28 at Brgy Conde Labac, Batangas City, Batangas.

59th Infantry "Protector" Battalion, Philippine Army
Read: bit.ly/3P0VDDd
#JungleFighter
#KapayapaanKatahimikanKaunlaran

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=690171359820293&set=pcb.690171413153621

https://www.facebook.com/junglefighterdivision

7ID: IN PHOTOS|| 71IB attended the final coordination meeting with the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) Core Team

Posted to the 7th Infantry "Kaugnay" Division Facebook Page (Sep 3, 2023): IN PHOTOS|| 71IB attended the final coordination meeting with the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) Core Team

7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division, Philippine Army

Kaibigan Battalion
·
IN PHOTOS|| 71IB attended the final coordination meeting with the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) Core Team presided by Ms. Esther Rose P Basingil, MLGOO-Mayantoc for the preparation, tasking and execution on the upcoming serbisyo caravan to be held at Brgy Labney, Mayantoc, Tarlac.

The RCSP is a convergence mechanism for Local Government Units, particularly in the barangay for identifying issues and needed government interventions. Barangay Labney in the municipality of Mayantoc, Tarlac is among the RCSP barangays for CY 2023.

#BuildingPartnership
#AFPyoucanTRUST
#WeDefendTogether
#TatakKaibigan







https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=682635967225671&set=pcb.682637867225481

https://www.facebook.com/kaugnay7id

7ID: People’s Organization sa Tarlac, sumailalim sa Financial and Business Literacy Training

Posted to the 7th Infantry "Kaugnay" Division Facebook Page (Sep 3, 2023): People’s Organization sa Tarlac, sumailalim sa Financial and Business Literacy Training (People's Organization in Tarlac, underwent Financial and Business Literacy Training)

7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division, Philippine Army

People’s Organization sa Tarlac, sumailalim sa Financial and Business Literacy Training

 
FORT MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija – Sumailalim ang Solid Indigenous New Adventures Guide (SINAG) sa isang Financial and Business Literacy Training na pinangunahan ng Public Employment at Service Office (PESO) Tarlac at kasundaluhan ng 3rd Mechanized Infantry Battalion na ginanap sa Sitio San Pedro Covered Court, Barangay Iba, San Jose, Tarlac nitong ika-31 ng Agosto 2023.

 
Ang nasabing pagsasanay ay isang hakbangin ng PESO Tarlac bago ang pagbibigay ng nakalaang kagamitang pangkabuhayan sa mga miyembro ng naturang organisasyon na nagkakahalaga ng limang-daang libong piso (Php500,00.00) upang magkaroon sila ng sapat na kaalaman at maayos na pamamalakad ng kanilang napiling pangkabuhayan-Tour Guiding Package at Souvenir Making.
Laking pasasalamat ng mga miyembro ng SINAG sa pagbabahagi sa kanila ng sapat na kaalaman patungkol sa usaping pangkabuhayan at sa tulong na ipinapamahagi sa kanila ng pamahalaan sa pamamagitan ng mga ibat-ibang ahensya nito sa kanila.

 
Nagpasalamat naman ang Focal Person ng PESO Tarlac sa pangunguna ni Ms. Luzviminda Lalu sa pakikipagtulungan ng 3rd Mechanized Infantry Battalion upang mailapit ang SINAG sa kanilang ahensya at maipamahagi ang kanilang programang pangkabuhayan para sa nasabing organisasyon.
Pinuri din niya ang kooperasyon at pakikipagtulungan ng bawat miyembro ng SINAG dahil sa pagiging aktibo nito sa mga isinagawang pagpupulong upang mapag-usapan at maiayos ang mga dokumentong kakailanganin para sa nasabing pangkabuhayan.

 
Samantala, binigyang-diin naman ni Lieutenant Colonel Jeszer M. Bautista ang Commanding Officer ng 3rd Mechanized Infantry Battalion ang pagsisikap ng PESO Tarlac at iba pang mga ahensya ng pamahalaan upang masuportahan ang mga pangangailangan at pangkabuhayan ng nasabing organisasyon.

 
“Sa ganitong paraan ay napapanatili natin ang pag-unlad ng mga miyembro ng nabuong organisasyon at naipaparamdam natin sa kanila na ang mga ahensya ng pamahalaan ay seryoso sa kanilang layunin na maipaabot ang mga programang nakalaan para sa mga nangangailangan,” ani Lt. Colonel Bautista.
Ikinatuwa naman ni Major General Andrew D. Costelo PA, Commander ng 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division, Philippine Army ang patuloy na pagtutulongan ng 3rd Mech Bn at ng PESO Tarlac para sa ikaka-unlad ng People’s Organization sa kanilang lugar.

 
“Ating hinihikayat ang mga miyembro ng organisasyon na ito na gamitin ang kanilang natutunan at dagdag na kasanayan base sa kanilang natutunan sa Financial and Business Literacy Training na lubos na makakatulong sa kanilang hanapbuhay. Narito ang inyong kasundaluhan katuwang ang iba’t ibang ahensya ng gobyerno upang kayo ay alalayan sa inyong mga adhikain na makakabuti sa inyong mga hinaharap,” ayon kay MGen. Costelo.

3rd Mechanized Infantry Battalion, Armor Division, Philippine Army
#KaugnayInAction
#TeamKaugnay
#AFPyoucanTRUST











https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=621902193402109&set=pcb.621902610068734

https://www.facebook.com/kaugnay7id/posts/

8ID: Troops unearth arms cache and explosives in Eastern Samar

Posted to the 8th Infantry "Stormtrooper" Division Facebook Page (Sep 5, 2023): Troops unearth arms cache and explosives in Eastern Samar

8th Infantry "Stormtroopers" Division, Philippine Army

Troops unearth arms cache and explosives in Eastern Samar

CAMP VICENTE LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – The troops of the 78th Infantry Battalion of the 8th Infantry Division discovered and unearthed a buried arms cache in the hinterlands of Barangay San Andres (Lower), Borongan City, Eastern Samar on August 27, 2023.

Seized were one M16 rifle, two International Humanitarian Law (IHL)-banned Anti-Personnel Mines (APMs), and several subversive documents.

The troops conducted the operation after residents of the said barangay divulged the location of the arms cache that lead to the recovery of the said war materiel.

It can be recalled that the members of the CPP-NPA-NDF’s underground mass organizations (UGMOs) in the said barangay previously declared their withdrawal of support from the Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs) and support allegiance to the government before Borongan City Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC) Chair, Mayor Jose Ivan Agda last August 19, 2023.

Meanwhile, on the same day, August 27, a former member of the Unit Militia or part-time CPP-NPA member identified as alias Athan, surrendered to the troops of the 63rd Infantry Battalion bringing his Cal .38 revolver, two improvised shotguns, two magazines of M16 rifle, 37 rounds of 5.56mm ammunitions, an EPSON digital projector, medical equipment, and 14 acupuncture needles at Sitio Bagti, Brgy. Mabini, Basey, Samar.

The Commander of the 8th Infantry Division, Major General Camilo Z Ligayo lauded the cooperation of the residents and the former rebels to help and work hand-in-hand with the government in solving the insurgency problem.

Maj. Gen. Ligayo also called on the general public to support and be one with the government in advocating peace and socio-economic development.

“The insurgency problem is not a sole responsibility of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police but is shared by every member of the society. Let us actively support the programs of the local government to peacefully resolve the problem in insurgency. Let us encourage everybody to follow the path of peace. Let us condemn those who advocate violence and the use of arms,” Maj.Gen.Ligayo expressed.

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=698230925679236&set=pcb.698231142345881

https://www.facebook.com/stormtroopersdivision/posts/

Suspected IED in Iligan not capable of initiating explosion

From MindaNews (Sep 5, 2023): Suspected IED in Iligan not capable of initiating explosion (By RICHEL V. UMEL)

ILIGAN CITY (MindaNews / 5 Sept)—The suspected improvised explosive device (IED) found in an ukay-ukay (used clothing) store here beside the Gaisano Mall on Sunday were not capable of initiating an explosion, police said.

Police bomb experts work on the suspected IED found inside an ukay-ukay store adjacent to the Gaisano Mall in downtown Iligan City on Sunday (3 September 2023). Photo courtesy of Iligan City Police Office

Col. Reinante B. delos Santos, city police director, said in the official report on the matter that while the suspected IED wrapped in black plastic bags left at Emiat’s Treasurehunt Secondhand Shoppe along Consunji St. indeed contain some items for making bombs, it could not possibly cause an explosion as it lacked crucial components.

Iliganons were alarmed Sunday morning as reports of an IED found inside the ukay-ukay store spread like wildfire on social media, even before police could issue a statement on the matter.

The melee took place just a few days after the city opened its month-long Diyandi Festival leading to the city fiesta on Sept. 29, feast of Iligan’s patron saint, Michael the Archangel.

Delos Santos, in his report, said that a sales attendant reported about an abandoned backpack inside Emiat’s around 9:30 a.m. Police operatives, including bomb experts from the explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) team, immediately responded to the call, cordoning off the area around the ukay-ukay store.

The store is located across the south wing entrance of Gaisano Mall downtown with heavy pedestrian traffic, thus triggering curious onlookers to congregate. The incident caused monstrous traffic as police yellow tapes spilled over to the national highway.

Delos Santos said a “render safe procedure” using water canon was performed to make sure that the suspected IED was disabled.

Delos Santos said that the EOD technician, upon closely examining the suspected IED, found “four containers of suspected main charge containing alleged explosive substance; one two-way handheld radio; three analog/keypad cellphones; concrete nails believed to be explosive enhancer; and rocker switch, blower and wires.”

The examining officer, the police chief said, found out that the suspected IED has no power source or battery that could initiate an explosion.

Furthermore, the triggering devices “could not trigger an explosion” as the handheld radio was non-functional, the report said. All the cellphones were also defective; one did not even have a battery, yet another did not have a SIM card.

“Moreover, the chemical compound found inside the four canisters was not ammonium nitrate fuel oil (ANFO), which is also incapable to ignite an explosion and there were no blasting caps found,” the report added.

Delos Santos said the motive of planting the device and the identity of the courier who intentionally left the backpack are still being investigated. He said earlier they have already acquired CCTV video clips.

The police chief said it could be assumed “that the package was intended only to threaten the public and create a scenario of panic” in the city.

“The possibility however that the incident is a diversionary tactic of the enemy to divert the attention of the authorities from other targets and focus the attention to Iligan City cannot be discounted,” Delos Santos pointed out. (Richel V. Umel / MindaNews)

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2023/09/suspected-ied-in-iligan-not-capable-of-initiating-explosion/

NTF-Elcac asks rebels to surrender, seek amnesty; Amnesty proclamation to be issued soon

Posted to Panay News (Sep 5, 2023): NTF-Elcac asks rebels to surrender, seek amnesty; Amnesty proclamation to be issued soon

The 55 years of communist rebellion only brought hardship, misery and death to the people as the rebels fought for a “failed” ideology, according to the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA — Officials of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-Elcac) on Saturday called on communist insurgents still fighting the government to lay down their weapons and avail themselves of the amnesty that the government will be issuing soon.

In a news forum in Quezon City, NTF-Elcac Director Alexander Umpar said a government working group is helping craft the amnesty proclamation that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will likely issue this month, which is National Peace Consciousness Month.

“There is a working group tackling this (proclamation) and making referrals [to the President] and we think that it might be issued during the National Peace Consciousness Month,” he said.

The amnesty will have to be approved by both houses of Congress, in accordance with the Constitution.

Umpar said the proclamation would complete the reintegration of the former rebels and restore their political rights.

He said the National Amnesty Commission (NAC) will establish local amnesty boards that will accept and process applications for amnesty by former communist rebels.

Umpar said member agencies of the NAC are also mindful of the guidance that the president issued regarding the Barangay Development Program to establish “resilient” communities and the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program to support former rebels.

Another NTF-Elcac director, Jose Descallar, said the 55 years of communist rebellion only brought hardship, misery and death to the people as the rebels fought for a “failed” ideology.

“Our economy is wasted, our progress halted. Many families were wrecked. Communism has been rejected by the world. It is a failed social experiment. It did not work in the Soviet bloc, China. Communism is no longer relevant,” Descallar said.

“We wish that they lay down your arms already. Join [us] in creating a peaceful, strong, progressive Philippines, a new Philippines where everyone is united, working together to revive the country,” he added.

Descallar claimed that the government had been winning the war against the insurgents and expected to achieve a strategic victory soon.

Citing government data, Descallar said the task force body started in 2018 confronting 89 guerrilla fronts. Today, there are only 20 guerrilla fronts in existence, after the government dismantled 69 fronts in the past four and a half years.

“Of the 20 guerrilla fronts, 19 are weakened guerrilla fronts and only one remains to be dismantled in Northern Samar. So, when we say strategic victory, this [refers to] the 19 weakened guerrilla fronts and the remaining one that is being confronted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” he explained.

“There are still concerns about the armed [fronts] but they will probably not be able to mount an intense armed battle to [bring] down our government. That’s the strategic victory.” (Jerome Aning © Philippine Daily Inquirer)

https://www.panaynews.net/ntf-elcac-asks-rebels-to-surrender-seek-amnesty-amnesty-proclamation-to-be-issued-soon/

No adverse findings on creation of security, protection group — OVP

From the Sun Star-Davao (Sep 5, 2023): No adverse findings on creation of security, protection group — OVP (By IAN CARL ESPINOSA)

Photo creidt to OVP

THE Office of the Vice-President (OVP) claims that there are no adverse findings on the creation of the Vice Presidential Security and Protection Group (VPSPG), which deploys 433 personnel.

In a statement, the VPSPG was created to be a group independent from the Presidential Security Group (PSG). However, it emphasizes that the deployment of VPSPG will only depend on the assessment of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP).

It also added that the VPSPG’s aim is to “wholly provide all future Philippine Vice Presidents with necessary security and protection.”

“The Commission on Audit found no adverse finding on the creation of the Vice Presidential Security and Protection Group,” the OVP said, adding that the group “will wholly provide all future Philippine Vice Presidents with necessary security and protection, a fundamental task that it will inevitably perform even when the Vice President and the President face the misfortune of having a relationship strained or broken by political differences — a troubling situation we have seen during the past administration,” the statement wrote.

The OVP also said that comparisons between Vice President Sara Duterte and the security personnel of former Vice Presidents are “absurd and completely lacking basis”.

From July 2022 to August 2023, the OVP in a statement had deployed 252 personnel for the second half of 2022, 93 for the first quarter of 2023, 118 for the second quarter of 2023, and 21 for the months of July and August.

"The OVP remains grateful to the AFP and PNP for supporting the VPSPG and OVP," the agency added.

According to the latest audit report from the Commission on Audit, 433 people served as part of Vice President Sara Duterte's security and protection group in 2022, a 455 percent increase from the 78 detailed military personnel under the office in 2021 during the last full term of Leni Robredo.

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1971799/davao/local-news/no-adverse-findings-on-creation-of-security-protection-group-ovp

LOOK: Michelle Dee begins training with PH Air Force

From Rappler (Sep 5, 2023): LOOK: Michelle Dee begins training with PH Air Force

The beauty queen is seen having a meeting with military officers

MANILA, Philippines – On top of her preparations for the Miss Universe 2023 pageant, Michelle Dee has also started her training to join the Philippine Air Force.

In the photos shared by the Miss Universe Philippines (MUPH) organization on Friday, September 1, the beauty queen is seen having a meeting with military officers. Some pictures also showed Dee wearing a military camouflage cap.

“She knows that it’s going to be very challenging, but it’s something she really wants to do for the country,” MUPH captioned the post.

MUPH added that they salute Dee’s “dedication to serve.”

The process of augmentation is allowed only for existing but deficient items of appropriation. The OVP didn't have those items.

Dee, who was also crowned Miss World Philippines 2019, was named the Goodwill Ambassador of the Autism Society of the Philippines in 2020.

She also hosts and acts, having starred in television series Mga Lihim ni Urduja, Agimat ng Agila, and I Left My Heart in Sorsogon.

After winning the Miss Universe Philippines 2023 crown in May, Dee came out as a bisexual.

“I’m so much more than how I identify myself. I have so much more to offer the world and the universe than how I identify myself,” she said then.

Dee will be representing the Philippines in the Miss Universe 2023 pageant in El Salvador in December 2023.

She will compete in the hopes of winning the country’s fifth Miss Universe crown.

https://www.rappler.com/entertainment/celebrities/michelle-dee-training-philippine-air-force/

Mateship thrives in inaugural exercise

Posted to Contact (Sep 5, 2023): Mateship thrives in inaugural exercise (Posted by Mike Hughes)

[Contact characterizes itself as "Australia's best infotainment platform"

CAPTION: An Australian Army M1A1 Abrams tank from the 2nd Cavalry Regiment hits the shore during a combined amphibious assault activity on Exercise Alon in the Philippines. Story by Squadron Leader Courtney Jay. Photos by Lance Corporal Riley Blennerhassett.

For the first time, the ADF and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), with the support of the United States Marine Corps (USMC), have conducted Exercise Alon, focusing on combined amphibious operations.

Multiple ships, aircraft and about 2400 personnel – including 1200 from the ADF, 1000 from the AFP and 150 US Marines – participated in the exercise in the Philippines from August 14 to 31.

ADF Chief of Joint Operations Lieutenant General Greg Bilton attended two key activities and said the exercise was a significant activity within Indo-Pacific Endeavour that increased interoperability, deepened people-to-people links and enhanced defence cooperation.

“I was extremely proud to see how the ADF, AFP and USMC worked so closely in this complex training and know that we will continue to build on our already close relationships,” Lieutenant General Bilton said.

“I’d like to express my gratitude to the Philippines for graciously hosting us and for their very kind hospitality.”

The exercise included combined force integration in Darwin and on board HMAS Canberra, an air assault exercise and a combined amphibious assault exercise across the Philippines.

The Palawan air assault exercise in Rizal on August 21 simulated combat scenarios, enhancing the forces’ preparedness and operational readiness across air, sea and land. More than 600 soldiers from the ADF, AFP and USMC, and RAAF F-35A Lightning II and E-7A Wedgetail aircraft supported this exercise.

In the combined amphibious assault exercise in Zambales on August 25, a combined amphibious landing force was launched from Navy ships to secure beach landing sites.



CAPTION: Royal Australian Navy Aviation Support sailors count deck lashings from a United States Marine Corps MV-22B Osprey in preparation to launch from HMAS Canberra. Photo by Leading Seaman Susan Mossop.

Assets from across the three nations supported the drills, including HMA Ships Canberra and Anzac, the Philippines’ Tarlac-class landing platform dock BRP Davao Del Sur, RAAF F-35A Lightning II aircraft, an Australian Army M1A1 Abrams tank, USMC MV-22B Osprey, a parachute insertion and two Philippine Marine Corps amphibious assault vehicles.

Defence Attaché to the Philippines Colonel Paul Barta said Australia and the Philippines had a long history of defence cooperation.

”Mateship is a key part of Australian history and culture. In the Philippines, the equivalent term is bayanihan,” Colonel Barta said.

“Exercise Alon has provided the opportunity to deepen already strong ties and add complexity in training. It was tremendous to see ADF members working alongside their AFP and USMC counterparts in the Philippines, sharing experiences and learning from each other – a clear manifestation of mateship and bayanihan.

“A lot of time and effort has gone into the planning and execution of this exercise, and the demonstration of our nations training together in complex scenarios is a great outcome.”



CAPTION: Australian Army soldiers from the 1st Battalion, the Royal Australian Regiment take part in a combined amphibious assault exercise on Exercise Alon.

https://www.contactairlandandsea.com/2023/09/05/mateship-thrives-in-inaugural-exercise/

Building a warfighting medical capability

Posted to Australian Government//Defense (Sep 5, 2023): Building a warfighting medical capability

Armed Forces of the Philippines medical team members have been awarded certificates for completing the bespoke Maritime Resuscitation Casualty Care Training, held in HMAS Canberra during Exercise Alon.

Seven hospital-based health personnel integrated with the training, completing the same theoretical and practical activities as ADF members, and delivering lessons in health care in the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Additionally, eight medics took part in the training conducted by embarked forces Australian Army medics and combat first aiders, which covered first aid and tactical combat casualty care content.

The knowledge exchange between the two nations’ health personnel meant everyone involved had a rich, deep and enjoyable training experience.

In awarding the certificates, Commander of the Amphibious Task Force (RAN) Captain Phillipa Hay thanked the medical staff for bringing their expertise aboard.

“This is the future of small to medium-sized nations working together,” Captain Hay said.

“Whilst you haven’t had to deal with any major casualties, thank goodness, what I hope this does is build confidence. Confidence that when we do come together we can quickly integrate and reach out to one another and not have to pause and question and be worried about standard operating procedures, about standards of clinical care, and the expectations of clinical care.

“Through working and integrating together, you’ve already built that confidence that if a Filipino comes into the ship we will look after your soldier, sailor or aviator. And we have confidence that you will also look after one of our own.”

Captain Hay said integration activities such as this training would continue, and not just through Exercise Alon, but through other multinational activities that the Philippines are involved in.

“The opportunity to have all the medical staff aboard ensures we can build a warfighting medical capability at sea, and embedding with another nation gives us capacity,” Captain Hay said.

Armed Forces of the Philippines radiologist Lieutenant Colonel Aristoteles Ilarde, of the Medical Corps, said he learnt a lot about the advanced medical procedures being used in HMAS Canberra.

And while he had a few patients to treat while aboard, he enjoyed engaging in the valuable information exchange and assisting with the ultrasounds.

https://www.defence.gov.au/news-events/news/2023-09-05/building-warfighting-medical-capability