Lumad school turned over to barangay in Paquibato

From the Mindanao Times (Oct 16, 2020): Lumad school turned over to barangay in Paquibato (BY RHODA GRACE SARON)



THE DEPARTMENT of Education and the 89th Infantry Battalion turned over a makeshift classroom to the IP community in Sitio Paraiso, Barangay Tapak, Paquibato District on Oct. 12.

The Butay Elementary School-Paraiso Annex will serve Lumad school children who have to hike two hours to reach the nearest school in Sitio Butay of the same barangay. However, with no classrooms, they had to utilize the existing daycare center in the area.

The school is a two-classroom structure with concrete walls and zinc roofing sheets and presently has 77 enrolled elementary students. It is the 10th school that was built by the unit in the IP communities.

The project employed the Bayanihan concept – with the residents of Sitio Paraiso providing the labor, while government officials and the private sector provided the funds. The Army also helped tapped the foreman and carpenters to build the school.

There are now three makeshift schools in Paquibato District, and seven more in the most far-flung sitios of Kitaotao and San Fernando, Bukidnon.

The inauguration and turnover ceremony was attended by DepEd elementary school heads of Paquibato District, barangay officials, tribal leaders, private stakeholders, and donors, and members of the 89th IB and 1003rd Infantry Brigade.

Lt. Col. Silas Trasmontero, 89th Infantry Battalion commander, emphasized the need for the government and the private sector to team up to address the issues in far-flung barangays, and protect them from being exploited by the communist rebels.

“This is only one of the manifestations of how EO70, or the whole of nation approach, works in ending the communist armed conflict in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas,” Trasmontero said.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2020/10/16/lumad-school-turned-over-to-barangay-in-paquibato/

ANGAY-ANGAY LANG: Personal Reflections on Kalinaw Mindanaw (Part 4 of 5)

 From MindaNews (Oct 16, 2020): ANGAY-ANGAY LANG: Personal Reflections on Kalinaw Mindanaw (Part 4 of 5) (By RUDY BUHAY RODIL)

Session with Experts
Part of the GPH-MILF Peace Negotiation

On the occasion of Transitional Justice and Reconciliation Commission (TJRC), Chair was Mrs. Mô Bleeker of Swiss Government
Marco Polo, Davao City
24-25 November 2014

Creating a new History

ILIGAN CITY (MindaNews / 16 October) – Now, we are creating a new generation. We can sing the song in different tunes and languages but containing the same dream, Kalinaw Mindanaw:

we are molding a new nation

we are making a new history

Mindanao is a palayok (kolon, clay pot)

of the tri-peoples the Lumad Muslim Christian

balanced on three posts

standing as equal in dignity

we draw our life from the same palayok

This is our home

Kalinaw Mindanaw

Normalization is a two-fold process, both are essential and integral to the human community.

One is political, official, diplomatic responding to the four strands of ancestral domain, namely: identity, territory, resources and governance. This is the task of the two GPH-MILF panels.

Still unaddressed is the psychological aspect of the problem, the emotional dimension of the problem, accumulated mutual rejection, mutual distrust, ignorance about each other, anger, indignation, including trauma.

Addressing this today is, to me, an integral part of normalization.

That is what husay is in our traditional way of resolving conflicts, always addressing the emotional dimension. This is why at the end of the process there is plenty of tears and hugging from affected clans, and living happily together.

That is restoring peace and harmony in the community. This is connecting the panel-to-panel process and the people-to-people husay. A convergence.

Teachers’ training is both, correcting historical errors, and integration elements of harmony and peace at the community level.

There are sufficient materials with which to carry out as input in teachers’ training so that they become transformed into functioning bridges towards their students and among the students, from grade school to colleges or universities thereby contributing to the creation of a new generation.

More researches can be done as part of academic life. They can also reach out to the parents through their children and directly through the PTA (Parents Teachers Association) in meetings with parents. Eventually, the new spirit and consciousness will reach the local leaders.

Our world is clearly not confined to the four elements of legitimate grievances, historical injustice, human rights, and marginalization on the ground.

Some problems can wait, but cases of trauma cannot; the emotional dimension of the problem cannot wait; teachers who must teach as part of their daily task cannot wait.

[Si Prof. Rudy Buhay Rodil ay aktibong historyan ng Mindanao, tagapasulong ng kalinaw (Bisaya sa kapayapaan). Kilala siyang espesyalista sa paghusay ng mga gusot sa Mindanao-Sulu. Naging Komisyoner noon ng Regional Consultative Commision sa siyang nagbuo ng draft organic law ng Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao noong 1988. Dalawang beses siyang naging miyembro ng GRP Peace Negotiating Panel. 1993-1996, pakikipag-usap sa Moro National Liberation (MNLF), at noong 2004-2008 sa pakikipag-negosasyon sa Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). Naging visiting propesor sa Hiroshima University, Oktubre-Disyembre 2011. Nagretiro noong Oktubre 2007.]

https://www.mindanews.com/mindaviews/2020/10/angay-angay-lang-personal-reflections-on-kalinaw-mindanaw-part-4-of-5/

Army welcomes newborn baby of former NPA Amazon

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 16, 2020): Army welcomes newborn baby of former NPA Amazon (By 23rd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army) 

BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte, Oct. 16 -- An 18-year-old pregnant former member of the New People’s Army (NPA) amazon successfully delivers her first baby on October 9, 2020 at the Agusan del Norte Provincial Hospital in Barangay Libertad, Butuan City.

It was late in the evening when Alias Wena felt the pain in her tummy as a sign that she will be giving birth to her first baby. She was then assisted by the troops of the 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion (23rd IB), Philippine Army and immediately brought to the hospital.

Alias Wena (true name withheld for security reason) serves as the Squad Medic of SYP SIKOP, Guerrilla Front-4A, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) for nearly two years. She was lured and recruited by the Communist NPA Terrorist (CNT) at the young age of 16. She had big dreams in life but realized that she could not finish her studies because of poverty. To pursue her dreams, she applied as a working student and studied at Buenavista National High School in Agusan del Norte.

Unfortunately, she was not able to finish her schooling because the leaders of the CNTs destroyed her life and killed her dreams and ambitions. She was easily lured by the CNTs also because her father and her two other brothers were also active members of the armed group. In other words, her entire family was ruined by the CNTs by taking the most important foundation of their family which was her father-the person who should guide, protect, take care and look after them while they grow.

Alias Wena together with her companion Alias Apay who was also pregnant was rescued by the troops of 23IB in Barangay Guinabsan, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte way back May 16, 2020. They then stayed inside the Masigasig Happy Home and were assisted and monitored by the FR NCO especially during their prenatal, ultrasound, and other necessary activities to make sure that they will deliver their babies healthily. The unit also made sure that they can avail of all the assistance and benefits offered by the government for the FRs.

Alias Wena thanked the government especially the PSWD, PLGU Agusan Norte, and the 23IB, and other line government agencies who never failed to extend assistance to them especially to her who is bearing her first child. She needed a peaceful environment, nutritious foods, and must not be stressed as being pregnant is so sensitive to stressful environments. Unfortunately, her husband, who was also a member of the CNT, already passed away. She needs to stand on her own but luckily, the government is always ready to help her anytime.

Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C Paulo, the Acting Commander of 23IB happily welcomed the newborn baby. He expressed gladness upon knowing the baby was successfully and healthily delivered despite the pandemic that we are facing.

“I am glad that another blessing enters inside our Battalion. While the NPAs are only good in destroying families, your army and the government will mend what the NPAs have broken especially the families,” Paulo said.

He added that Alias Wena was one of the survivors in the encounter that transpired in Sitio Likudon, Brgy Kamanikan, Gingoog City way back May 10, 2020, wherein 15 NPA combatants were killed in action and Alias Nady (their comrade), a pregnant NPA Amazon was one of the casualties.

“Indeed, coming back to the folds of the law is the most wonderful thing that the FRs can give to themselves especially for the Amazon because it is so dangerous for them. You are destined to be the light of your families to guide your children. You are not supposed to be suffering in the mountains to fight against the government without gaining any profit,” Paulo said. (1Lt Roel T. Maglalang, CMO Officer, 23IB, 4ID, PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1055885

ZamboSur StratCom cluster for peace officially organized

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 16, 2020): ZamboSur StratCom cluster for peace officially organized (By Gideon C. Corgue) 

GUIPOS, Zamboanga del Sur, Oct. 16 (PIA)—The Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) Strategic Communication (Stratcom) cluster officially start the tough work in communicating the Executive Order Number 70 also known as Task Force End-Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) by holding a forum with the municipal information officers (MIOs) and private media practitioners at Camp David Sabido in barangay Poblacion here.

LtCol. Joar Herrera, commanding officer of 53rd Infantry (Matpat) Battalion, Philippine Army said the role of StratCom cluster, as one of the 12 clusters and lines of efforts of EO 70 of President Rodrigo Duterte is very crucial in making a difference in the government’s quest of ending local communist armed conflict.

Herrera challenged the information officers (IOs) and mainstream media to sustain the strong bond of the group by creating some products in social media, produce videos and write books in order to share the narratives that will change the mindset of the people.

Herrera said the 53rd IB have narratives that need to be shared to the people.

“The 53rd IB, Philippine Army has a lot of surrenderees. We need to share the stories of our former rebels to encourage others who are still in the mountains to come down and to go back to the mainstream society, and tell the whole world that the government is working very hard to end local communist armed conflict,” Herrera urged.

Regional Director Noemi Edaga of Philippine Information Agency (PIA) said the goal of StratCom is to dominate the information environment and address communication gap between the government and the people in the far-flung barangays.

Edaga said the PIA as chairman of the StratCom cluster in region 9, empowers information officers and students to actively support national government advocacies.

“PIA enjoins, capacitates and empowers the youth sector to become active information multipliers of government campaigns such as ending local armed conflict, embrace Covid-19 health protocol as new normal and other advocacies that affect communities,” Edaga explained.

Edaga is optimistic that in achieving the government’s ultimate goal of having a peaceful and progressive community is possible through intensified information dissemination from the information multipliers.

Meanwhile, Jesreel Himang, chairperson of PTF-ELCAC StratCom said the ELCAC forum is a great opportunity for the IOs and mainstream media to deliberate on their programs, activities, and plans and delineate the respective roles for the current counter-insurgency thrust of the province.

“As chairman of the Strategic Communications here in the province, with the help of our Governor, I am committed to provide the necessary assistance to our media community through the support of our provincial government in whatever activities that will help us realize our objectives as we formally launch this local communication group for ELCAC,” Himang said.

The StratCom cluster will prepare its communication plan and the output will be consolidated by PIA. (RVC/GCC/PIA Zamboanga del Sur)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1056128

PIA-7 to launch ELCAC FB Trivia on Oct. 19

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 16, 2020): PIA-7 to launch ELCAC FB Trivia on Oct. 19 (By Fayette C. Riñen) 

CEBU, Oct. 16 (PIA) -- The Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Central Visayas will launch on Oct. 19, 2020 the Facebook Trivia on Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) to promote awareness on the priority agenda of the government relative to security.

The FB trivia will be launched on the Regional ELCAC FB Page “Make Central Visayas Insurgency Free,” where one question is posted daily starting on Monday and the first to give the correct answer to the day’s question can get to win a P100 load card.

On Dec. 4, 2018, Pres. Rodrigo Roa Duterte signed Executive Order No. 70 institutionalizing the whole-of nation approach in attaining inclusive and sustainable peace, and creating a National Task Force on ELCAC.

As the information support arm of the government, PIA is aggressively communicating the ELCAC drive nationwide as its goal is to end insurgency by the time Duterte ends his term by 2022.

In Central Visayas, Negros Oriental remains affected by insurgency, while the rest of the provinces in the region such as Cebu are considered white areas, or where recruitment continues.

In order to strategize the information drive of ELCAC for the youth, the PIA Region 7 maximizes the use of the social media platform, specifically Facebook, to make the netizens understand the need to thwart attempts to recruit by left-leaning extremists.

According to Emil Respeto, assistant regional director of the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency 7, social media has been exploited by the other side to recruit new members, aside from campuses that are prime areas for recruitment.

“We need to unite together from the government, academe, business, religious, civil society groups, non-government organizations and other sectors to fight the war against insurgency and terrorism. The CPP-NPA and the National Democratic Front have been categorized as terrorists by the government because of the continuing atrocities from their end,” said Regional Director Fayette Riñen of PIA Central Visayas.

Just recently, Riñen spoke about the significance of E.O. 70 and the Dismiss Disinformation Campaign before over a hundred participants composed of deans and program managers of Mass Communication, Development Communication, Literature and other courses in the various colleges and universities of Region 7 during a webinar organized by the Commission on Higher Education 7.

PIA-7 wants to partner with the academe to communicate the dangers of terrorism, especially as the students are susceptible to being recruited to join the other side.

Major Eduardo Precioso, spokesperson of the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Central Command, said the enemy wants to recruit young blood because their members are aging, using valid socio-economic issues to convince the youth, especially students, to stage protests against the government.

“With ELCAC, we want to address the insurgency problem not through military actions alone, but through a whole-of-nation approach where everyone should help address this over 50-year problem,” said Precioso. (fcr/PIA7)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1056178

AFP names JTF-NCR Commander as new Intelligence chief

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 16, 2020): AFP names JTF-NCR Commander as new Intelligence chief (By Lucia F. Broñio)

CALOOCAN CITY, Oct. 16 (PIA) -- Brigadier General Alex DC Luna today assumed as the new Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence, J2 in a Change of Chief of Office Ceremony presided by The Deputy Chief of Staff, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Rear Admiral Erick A Kagaoan at the GHQ Building in Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.

The position was previously held by Major General Greg T. Almerol who will now fully serve as the Commander of the 2nd Infantry Division in Tanay, Rizal.

Prior to his appointment as Deputy Chief for Intelligence, Luna served as the Commander of the Joint Task Force – NCR (JTF-NCR). In his stint as JTF Commander, he led his troops in COVID-19 response efforts while continuing counterinsurgency activities.

Luna was also assigned in Eastern Samar as Commander of the 801st Brigade and Co-Chairman of E-CLIP Committee. His expertise in the field of intelligence operations came from his experiences in the Army Intelligence Regiment, including his designation as Army Assistant Chief of Staff for Intelligence, G2.

“I urge you to sustain the progress started by your predecessors and perform your tasks with utmost commitment and dedication. We trust in your abilities and we look forward to more accomplishments under your helmsmanship,” Kagaoan told Luna.

The Deputy Chief of Staff also commended the outgoing Chief for Intelligence, Almerol for his contributions.

“MGen. Almerol is well-known for his expertise, competency, and high sense of responsibility. During his stint, MGen. Almerol has broadened the security perspective of the AFP by enhancing the intelligence operations that address the nation's stability against various threats despite the challenges brought by the pandemic,” said Kagaoan.

Almerol is a member of Philippine Military Class of 1989. Enemy forces decreased by 2,234 members and supporters through 148 intelligence projects and 284 case operations that he initiated.

“Let us all commit to fully understanding what we do and how we do it. Capitalize on our strengths and improve on our weaknesses as we continuously face the challenges ahead,” Kagaoan said in closing. (PIA NCR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1056213

Cops, Army renew ties to eliminate NPA in Eastern Samar

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 16, 2020): Cops, Army renew ties to eliminate NPA in Eastern Samar (By Sarwell Meniano)

ENDING INSURGENCY. Philippine National Police (PNP) Eastern Visayas regional director Brig. Gen. Ronaldo de Jesus (left) and Philippine Army 8th Infantry Division Commander Maj. Gen. Pio Diñoso III (right) attend a meeting on Thursday (Oct. 15, 2020) at the PNP regional office in Palo, Leyte. Key police and military officials have laid out plans to dismantle the remaining guerrilla front of the communist terrorist group New People’s Army (NPA) in Eastern Samar. (Photo courtesy of PNP)

Key police and military officials have laid out plans to dismantle the remaining guerrilla front of the communist terrorist group New People’s Army (NPA) in Eastern Samar.

Brig. Gen. Ronaldo de Jesus, director of the Police Regional Office (PRO)-8 (Eastern Visayas), said in a press statement issued late Thursday that government forces agreed to expedite operations and sustained pressure against the NPA in Samar.

The stronger ties discussed in Thursday's meeting aim to clear the NPA guerrilla front that has been threatening remote communities in Borongan City, Maydolong, Balangkayan, and Llorente towns in Eastern Samar province.

“The partnership of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Philippine Army is once again strengthened with the conduct of this meeting. With similar or even interrelated missions, cooperation and partnership between the PNP and the army are necessary. This time, we will also need the support of the local government units, which are highly responsible for community development and providing the links between the people and the government,” de Jesus said.

Recently, government forces successfully dismantled the NPA South Samar committee, resulting in the recovery of 10 firearms and surrender of 320 NPA fighters, underground mass organizations, and mass base supporters.

The government attributed the dismantling of NPA to the retooled community support program as an enabling mechanism to operationalize the whole of nation approach embodied in the Executive Order No. 70.

The creation of a task force to end the local communist armed conflict (ELCAC) in cities and towns has contributed to the reduction of the strength of NPA in the region as village officials and residents provide vital information that led to the neutralization of NPA fighters, according to the Philippine Army.

“We have the right formula and the support of ELCAC members from different sectors to make this happen,” Maj. Gen. Pio Diñoso III, commander of the Philippine Army 8th Infantry Division said in a phone interview.

The NPA, which has been waging a five-decade armed struggle against the government, is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1118731

NPA arms cache discovered in Zamboanga del Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 16, 2020): NPA arms cache discovered in Zamboanga del Sur (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

RECOVERED. Government troops recover on Wednesday (Oct. 14, 2020) an arms cache of the communist New People's Army rebels in an area bordering Zamboanga del Sur and Zamboanga del Norte provinces. The location of the arms cache was revealed to the military by a former NPA combatant. (Photo courtesy of the 102nd Infantry Brigade)

Government troops have recovered an arms cache of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) terrorists in an area bordering Zamboanga del Norte and Zamboanga del Sur provinces, officials said Friday.

Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), said the arms cache, consisting of two AK-47 assault rifles, an M16A1 “baby” Armalite rifle, and six magazines for AK-47 ammunition, was recovered after a former rebel revealed its location.

The NPA surrenderer is a member of the Main Regional Guerrilla Unit (MRGU) of the Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee (WMRPC), Vinluan said.

“Together with local government units and PNP (Philippine National Police) counterparts, we will continue to degrade the capabilities of the Communist Terrorist Group in Zamboanga del Sur province and promote security in the peaceful communities,” he said.

Vinluan said the recovered war materials were placed under the custody of the 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company of Zamboanga del Sur for documentation and safekeeping.

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Generoso Ponio, commander of the Joint Task Force ZamPeLan (the Zamboanga Peninsula and Lanao), lauded the 102nd Infantry Brigade for being "steadfast in downgrading the capabilities of the NPAs in Zamboanga del Sur".

“We call on all peace-loving citizens to continue to support us in all our endeavors most especially in defeating this terrorist group,” Ponio added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1118765

Hunt on for killers of 3 Maguindanao Covid-19 front-liners

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 16, 2020): Hunt on for killers of 3 Maguindanao Covid-19 front-liners (By Noel Punzalan)

SLAIN. The bodies of two of the three Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office personnel lay dead shortly after they were sprayed with bullets by armed men on board a white vehicle in Buluan, Maguindanao on Thursday evening (Oct. 15, 2020). The third victim died while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Buluan town. (Photo courtesy of Buluan MPS)

A police manhunt is underway against a group of armed men who killed in a drive-by shooting three coronavirus disease (Covid-19) front-liners in Buluan, Maguindanao on Thursday evening.

Colonel Donald Madamba, Maguindanao police director, identified the victims as Lucman Rasul, Teng Lawan, and Ilo Lawan, all residents of Barangay Poblacion in Buluan, all members of the Kabalikat Radio Communication Group under the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office.

The victims were seated near the road not far from a Covid-19 checkpoint in the town when a white car passed by and opened fire at them around 9 p.m., Madamba said, quoting witnesses.

He said the car sped off towards the direction of nearby Tacurong City after the incident.

“Two of the three victims died on the spot while the other one expired at a local hospital,” he said.

Madamba said all police units in the province have been alerted for the possible identification of the killers and the getaway vehicle.

“Our civilian field assets are helping us get the culprits behind the incident,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1118770

PH Navy eyes TC-12 'Huron' aircraft for air wing

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 16, 2020): PH Navy eyes TC-12 'Huron' aircraft for air wing (By Priam Nepomuceno)

The Philippine Navy (PN) on Friday said it is looking at the possibility of acquiring at least eight units of Beechcraft TC-12B "Huron" military turboprop aircraft to beef up its Naval Air Wing (NAW).

PN public affairs office chief Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas made this remark when sought for comment on reports that the Navy is planning to acquire the aircraft from the United States via its Excess Defense Articles (EDA) Program for the NAW.

"It is being planned and considered," she told the Philippine News Agency.

When asked about the possible uses of the TC-12B once the PN gets approval to acquire the aircraft, Roxas said the planes can be used for ISR (intelligence, surveillance, and recon), SAR (search-and-rescue), and limited cargo transport during HADR (humanitarian assistance disaster relief).

Earlier reports said the Joint US Military Assistance Group-Philippines has offered 13 TC-12B to the country via the US EDA with the PN leadership signifying its intention to acquire eight of the aircraft.

Talks are now ongoing between the pertinent agencies to finalize the program.

The TC-12B "Huron" has a crew of six and is capable of carrying 13 passengers. It is a twin-engine aircraft with a maximum speed of 333 miles per hour/535 kilometers per hour and has a range of 1,450 nautical miles.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1118730

Parents continue fight to raise awareness vs. NPA recruitment

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 16, 2020): Parents continue fight to raise awareness vs. NPA recruitment (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

Parents, whose children were once or still part of the communist rebellion, vowed to continue their fight and raise awareness that youth recruitment into the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) exists.

Therese Fuentes, a member of Hands Off Our Children group, said her son Francis Ern Mariveles was a 16-year-old student when he first joined Anakbayan -- three months before his freshman year in college.

Five years since the recruitment, the last she heard of her son was his membership to the CPP-NPA.

In a briefing last Wednesday, Fuentes showed a photo she got on social media, bearing the image of her armed son together with four more people similarly holding rifles.



"Kung makita niyo po ang anak ko dugyot na, payat na ang anak ko (If you ever see my son now, he looks untidy and thin)," she lamented. "Kung hindi ko pa nakita 'yong video na iyon hindi ko malalaman na naging NPA na pala ang anak ko (Had I missed that video, I wouldn't know that he joined the NPA)."

Fuentes said she already lost contact with her son but her mind is still filled with questions on Francis' condition.

"Ngayon hindi ko na alam kung nasaan ang anak ko, isipin niyo kung gaano kasakit at gaano kahirap sa isang nanay na hindi niya alam kung anong nangyayari sa anak niya (I don't have a clue where my son is now, you can't imagine how hard for a mother to not know her child's whereabouts)," she said.

"Sa bawat balitang sasabihin na may engkuwentro, na may namatay, lalaki, babae, kung kayo ay magulang na katulad namin, ano 'yong mararamdaman niyo (It's hard to watch the news whenever a report of an encounter would come in if you're a parent like me how would you feel)?" she added.

Anabelle Sabado, a member of the Hands Off Our Children group, once shared a similar story with Fuentes when her son Christian, who is now home, went to the mountains to join the movement and raised arms against the government.



"Narito ako bilang patunay na ang mga front organizations na ito, sila po ang nag-rerecruit o nanlilinlang sa mga kabataan upang mahubog at sumampa sa bundok o yakapin ang armadong pakikibaka (I'm a witness that these front organizations, they are the ones recruiting and deceiving the youth to participate in the underground movement)," she said.

Christian was recruited as a finance officer by the NPA, but last year, he decided to abandon the group for good.

Despite getting her son back, Sabado said she would continue the advocacy she started with the Hands Off Our Children group to raise awareness that there are groups that act as "front" for the communist armed movement.

In 2019, parents have come together to establish the group and join the campaign that seeks to help families looking for their loved ones who have been recruited into such organizations.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1118726

PCG gets 2 new rescue choppers

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 16, 2020): PCG gets 2 new rescue choppers (By Raymond Carl Dela Cruz)

NEW RESCUE HELICOPTER. One of two new Airbus H145 helicopters of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG). The PCG said each helicopter costs PHP685 million and will mainly be used in its humanitarian and disaster response operations. (Photo courtesy of PCG)

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has received two new Airbus H145 light twin-engine helicopters, boosting the maritime organization’s disaster response and humanitarian activities.

Each helicopter costs PHP685 million and was built and designed in Germany.

One of the helicopters was earlier commissioned on June 18, 2020, while the other was commissioned during the 119th anniversary of the PCG on Wednesday.

“CGH-1451 and CGH-1452 are equipped with high-frequency radios, emergency flotation gears, as well as fast-roping, cargo sling, searchlight, and electro-optical systems to perform critical missions including search and rescue, medical evacuation, and maritime patrol operation,” the PCG said in a statement on Facebook.

At this time of the pandemic, the choppers will be useful in transporting personal protective equipment sets, medical supplies, and medicines to far-flung areas and coastal communities, it said.

“Above all, said aerial assets will significantly enhance PCG's capabilities in upholding maritime law enforcement, maritime search and rescue, maritime security, maritime safety, and marine environmental protection in service to the Republic of the Philippines,” the PCG said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1118767

Luna is new AFP intel chief

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 16, 2020): Luna is new AFP intel chief (By Priam Nepomuceno)

NEW AFP INTEL CHIEF. New Armed Forces of the Philippines Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence, Brig. Gen. Alex Luna (left) accepts his office's official symbol from AFP Deputy Chief of Staff, Rear Admiral Erick Kagaoan (right), in a ceremony held in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Friday (Oct. 16, 2020). Luna, formerly chief of the Joint Task Force - NCR, replaced Maj. Gen. Greg Almerol who was appointed as commander of the Tanay, Rizal-based 2nd Infantry Division. (Photo courtesy of AFP Public Affairs Office)

Joint Task Force - National Capital Region (JTF-NCR) chief, Brig. Gen. Alex DC Luna, on Friday was designated as the new Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

In a statement, AFP public affairs office chief, Navy Capt. Jonathan Zata, said the change-of-chief of office ceremony was presided by AFP Deputy Chief of Staff, Rear Admiral Erick Kagaoan, at the General Headquarters Building in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

The position was previously held by Maj. Gen. Greg Almerol who has been appointed as commander of the Tanay, Rizal-based 2nd Infantry Division.

During his stint as JTF-NCR chief, Luna led troops in coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) response efforts while continuing counter-insurgency activities.

He was also assigned in Eastern Samar as commander of the 801st Brigade and co-chair of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) Committee.

Luna’s expertise in the field of intelligence operations came from his experiences in the Army Intelligence Regiment, including his designation as Army Assistant Chief of Staff for Intelligence.

“I urge you to sustain the progress started by your predecessors and perform your tasks with utmost commitment and dedication. We trust in your abilities and we look forward to more accomplishments under your helmsmanship," Kagaoan told Luna.

Meanwhile, Kagaoan also commended Almerol for his expertise, competency, and high sense of responsibility.

"During his stint, Maj. Gen. Almerol has broadened the security perspective of the AFP by enhancing the intelligence operations that address the nation's stability against various threats despite the challenges brought by the pandemic,” he said.

Almerol is a member of the Philippine Military Class of 1989.

Enemy forces decreased by 2,234 members and supporters through 148 intelligence projects and 284 case operations that Almerol initiated as AFP intelligence chief.

“Let us all commit to fully understanding what we do and how we do it. Capitalize on our strengths and improve on our weaknesses as we continuously face the challenges ahead,” Kagaoan said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1118774

Suspect in Kidapawan radioman slay joins NPA: PTFoMS

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 16, 2020): Suspect in Kidapawan radioman slay joins NPA: PTFoMS

In a desperate attempt to evade justice for the killing of Brigada News FM–Kidapawan station manager Eduardo Sanchez Dizon, prime suspect Dante Encarnacion Tabusares a.k.a. Bong Encarnacion has cowered behind the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) terrorist group by joining its ranks in Arakan, North Cotabato, the Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) confirmed.

This was verified in an official report submitted to the PTFoMS by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), through its public affairs office chief, Capt. Jonathan Zata.

Acting on the Palace Task Force's directive to know the whereabouts of the fugitive, the AFP reported that Tabusares has been broadcasting communist propaganda in his previous program over a local FM station.

“I commend the AFP for its continuing support to the Task Force’s initiatives in protecting the life, liberty, and security of all our media workers in the country,” said PTFoMS Co-Chair and Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar.

For his part, PTFoMS Executive Director, Undersecretary Joel Sy Egco said, "Our suspicion has been confirmed. We received reports earlier this year that Encarnacion had joined the NPA as quickly as the warrant of arrest against him came out."

"The NPA today is nothing more than a coddler of criminals and fugitives from justice. Is this the kind of justice they are espousing? They are just a bunch of ruthless murderers. Tabusares may hide behind this communist terrorist group but we will make sure that he will not be able to evade the long arm of the law forever," the Palace official stressed.

Earlier, Judge Henelinda Molina-Diaz of Kidapawan Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 61 ordered the arrest of Tabusares under Criminal Case no. 5281-2019 for the killing of Dizon, along with Junell Andagkit Poten and Sotelo Jacolbe, Jr.

Dizon, a former town councilor of Makilala, North Cotabato, was a blocktime host of the local Brigada News when he was murdered on July 10, 2019.

He was driving his car on his way home to Makilala at past 10 p.m. when motorcycle “riding-in-tandem” gunmen shot and killed him on the spot.

Tabusares allegedly masterminded the ambush of Dizon, who was critical of the KAPA Community Ministry International in his commentaries. Tabusares was the local coordinator of KAPA at the time.

It was the PTFoMS that led the relatives of Dizon to file criminal cases against Tabusares, Poten, and Jacolbe. Tabusares, the blocktimer endorser of KAPA and coordinator for its money market operations in Kidapawan City, threatened to have Dizon killed on his radio show weeks before the incident.

The PTFoMS is on top of the situation and will be relentless in bringing justice for Dizon and all other media workers who are victims of violence as a testament to the government’s commitment to protecting press freedom.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1118824

Duterte Youth wants probe into alleged 'NPA recruitment' in campuses

From Rappler (Oct 15, 2020): Duterte Youth wants probe into alleged 'NPA recruitment' in campuses (By SOFIA TOMACRUZ)

The move is one of the controversial group's first acts after its representative, Ducielle Cardema, joined Congress this week

Controversial party-list group Duterte Youth debuted in Congress with a call for a probe into the alleged recruitment of members from campus groups by the communist New People’s Army (NPA)

The resolution was filed just two days after its nominee, Ducielle Cardema, took her oath of office on Monday, October 13, as representative for the group in the 18th Congress.

In House Resolution No. 1293 filed on Thursday, October 15, Duterte Youth said it wanted to investigate the matter “to finally…resolve this most serious issue” for the security of the Philippines and to “protect millions of Filipino youth.”

Duterte Youth sought to make a distinction in organizations it would probe, saying the purpose of a prospective House investigation was not to investigate groups "critical of the government."

“The patriotic intention of this investigation is for the Philippine Congress and the Filipino people to finally find out which front organization are recruiting for the New People’s Army, for clearly the NPA has no visible recruitment centers in cities and school and are just using non-NPA-named front organizations to recruit for them,” it claimed.

On Thursday, Bayan Muna Representative Ferdinand Gaite criticized Duterte Youth's actions on Twitter, saying it was endangering the youth through a "communist witch hunt."

Why does this matter?

The agenda of probing youth groups with suspected links to Leftists was an advocacy of its chair and former first nominee, Ronald Cardema, the husband of incumbent nominee Ducielle.

Ronald became controversial for his aggressive stand against the progressive movement when he was youth commission chair.

As former chairperson of the National Youth Commission, Cardema called on all Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials to "fight" leftist youth groups. He also asked President Rodrigo Duterte to issue an order revoking government scholarships of “rebellious scholars.”

Cardema himself had wanted to become a representative in Congress and filed a last-minute substitution bid to replace his wife as the group’s first nominee in the 2019 elections.

He eventually canceled his nomination, while the Commission on Elections (Comelec) later disqualified him for being over the age limit to sit as youth representative.

Cardema's ambitions were criticized across the political spectrum as a "brazen attempt" to enter Congress.

Contested party

Duterte Youth assumed its seat over a year after the 2019 elections, following the Comelec's decision to issue it a certificate of proclamation in October 2020 .

The poll body voted to proclaim the organization as a winner in the midterm elections despite two serious petitions that challenged the validity of the group and its nominees.

The move was blasted by election lawyers who warned doing so would be the “most unconstitutional act” in the Comelec’s 80-year history since Duterte Youth would be the only group to sit in Congress without meeting constitutionally-mandated publication requirements to be considered a validly registered party-list.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/duterte-youth-wants-probe-alleged-new-peoples-army-recruitment-campus-youth-groups