Kalinaw News: Army, LGU conduct gift-giving in Brgy. Kapitan Ramon, Silay City

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 29, 2021): Army, LGU conduct gift-giving in Brgy. Kapitan Ramon, Silay City



Sagay City, Negros Occidental — A gift-giving activity was conducted by the Local Government Unit of Silay City in collaboration with the Philippine Army’s 79th Infantry (Masaligan) Battalion and 1st Negros Occidental Provincial Mobile Force Company for the residents of Hda Raymunda in Brgy Kapitan Ramon, Silay City, Negros Occidental on December 28, 2021.

Mayor Mark Andrew Arthur Golez led the gift-giving of food packs, appliances, and house repair materials to the residents of Hacienda Raymunda. Present also during the activity were Lieutenant Colonel J-jay Javines, Commanding Officer of 79IB; Police Lieutenant Colonel John Malong, Force Commander of 1st NOCPMFC, Ms. Aileen Palma, Branch OIC of Alida Silay; City Councilor Ramon Celebre; Councilor Demes Apla-on; and Brgy Officials headed by Brgy Captain Ronie Aguirre.

It can be recalled that last August 20, 2021, an encounter transpired between the troops of 79IB and remnants of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) operating in Northern Negros in the vicinity of Hacienda Raymunda which resulted in the neutralization of two (2) CPP-NPA terrorists (CNTs), one of which was identified as Kerima Lorena Tariman, a high ranking female party cadre.

In his message, Mayor Golez encouraged the residents of Hda. Raymunda actively participates in helping the government forces in protecting and making their community safe, simply by not supporting the CNTs.

He likewise thanked the efforts of the Philippine Army and the PNP for continuously maintaining the peace and order in the area despite the onslaught of Typhoon Odette.

Meanwhile, Lt.Col. Javines said that the gift-giving program highlights the Bayanihan efforts of the Philippine Army, PNP, and other stakeholders to reach out to the populace who live in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas and are continually affected by local armed conflict.

“Kapitan Ramon is one of those local armed conflict-affected communities because of the presence of NPA rebels in the area. These rebels will not stay if they do not get any support from the community. That is why I encourage everyone to stop
giving support to them (NPA) so that peace and progress will flourish in your community.

“Together, let us build peaceful, resilient, and progressive communities that are inhospitable to any threat group who seek to undermine our efforts for nation-building”, Javines added.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/army-lgu-conduct-gift-giving-in-brgy-kapitan-ramon-silay-city/

Kalinaw News: Army troops foil NPA terrorist plan

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 29, 2021): Army troops foil NPA terrorist plan

CAMP DOWNES, Ormoc City, December 28, 2021- the troops of the 14th Infantry Battalion under the 802nd Infantry Brigade encountered some remnants of CPP-NPA-NDF a terrorist group believed to be under communist terrorist leader Fermin Gozon alyas Dakpal/Jaguar/Doydoy in the vicinity of Sitio Pinaghiusa, Barangay Katipunan, Abuyog, Leyte at about 9:45 o’clock in the evening yesterday, December 27, 2021. The encounter is a result of information tipped by some residents and former CPP-NPA-NDF mass supporters who are now members of the Integrated Peace and Development Workers Association (IPDWA) in the area to the government troops.

According to Lieutenant Colonel Ernesto R Dela Rosa Jr, the Commanding Officer of 14IB, he acted on the information by sending troops in the area, and upon reaching the area, the troops confirmed the presence of NPA terrorists after which a brief exchange of fire for about five minutes ensued. The NPA terrorists disengaged and scampered towards different directions leaving one Garand Rifle with four (4) rounds of Caliber .30 live ammunition. The troops also recovered one backpack containing the following: One (1) pad amoxicillin medicine; Two (2) tabs of skelan medicine; One (1) tab Leproprime medicine; Two (2) kilos of rice; Two (2) packs of noodles; One (1) pack sky flakes crackers; One (1) pack Modess Napkin; Eight (8) pcs ball pens (assorted brand); One (1) pc Casio female watch; One (1) pc spray alcohol; One (1) pc lighter; One (1) pc JBL Headset; Two (2) plastic container powdered Tawas; One (1) pc toothbrush; One (1) tube toothpaste; One (1) pc mirror; One (1) towel; and Assorted female personal belongings.

Brigadier General Zosimo A Oliveros, Commander of 802nd Brigade, commended the troops of 14IB for the successful conduct of combat operations. He also expressed his thanks to the residents and members of the IPDWA who provided the timely information. He said that, with the cooperation of the peace-loving residents of Abuyog, the government forces have successfully pre-empted the planned atrocities of the terrorist group.

Brigadier General Oliveros further stressed, “the NPA terrorists were also affected by the recent typhoon. Their presence in the area is an indication that they wanted to seek refuge from the residents which they considered as their mass base. But the people no longer want their presence in the area as they already enjoyed a peaceful environment without any threats from the terrorist group”.

Brigadier General Oliveros reiterates his call to the remaining NPA terrorist in the area to lay down their arms and join their family and loved ones in our mainstream society. “With the people in our side, the information on the whereabouts of these remaining NPA terrorists could easily be obtained, hence their freedom of movement is restricted and it would not take long that we could corner them if they continue to threaten the peaceful lives of our people”, Oliveros concluded.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/army-troops-foil-npa-terrorist-plan/

Kalinaw News: Marines Establish Sovereignty Marker in Panguan Island

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 28, 2021): Marines Establish Sovereignty Marker in Panguan Island



Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – December 28, 2021

Marine troops of Joint Task Force Tawi-Tawi/2nd Marine Brigade, led by their Commander, Brig. Gen. Romeo Racadio visited Panguan Island, Barangay Datu Putih, Sitangkai, Tawi-Tawi on December 24 to establish a sovereignty marker in the area. The success of the mission is attributed to the strengthened collaboration between the armed forces and the local government of Sitangkai, Tawitawi.

Panguan Island is one of the “last southwestern island frontiers of the Philippines”. It was formerly used by kidnappers, smugglers, and other lawless groups to exploit the vulnerable and marginal Sama-Badjao tribe on the island until it was secured in 2017. Now, the island is the home of an eighty-household community of Sama-Badjaos whose children are educated by the civilians and military personnel of the marine detachment stationed thereat.

“As an exercise of sovereignty, the marker demonstrates the belongingness of the maritime feature and its inhabitants to one country. The local government needs to place one, because, Panguan or locally called “Panggungan” (resting safe area), is too remote from the provincial seat of government but in close proximity to another foreign place,” Brig. Gen. Racadio said.

It can be recalled that the sovereignty marker was also installed in Bakkungan (Great) Island, municipality of Turtle Islands in October 2021. In the coming months, the provincial and municipal local government units in the province of Tawi-Tawi will continue to support and partner with the military to place more of these markers in other islands located in the margin areas of the province in order to set the expectation that residents of these places are entitled to the same rights and protection as mandated by the Constitution.

“With our strengthened collaboration with our partners and stakeholders, we continue to gain significant breakthroughs in our campaigns to ensure the safety and security of the people and the state,” Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario, Jr., Commander of Western Mindanao Command said.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/marines-establish-sovereignty-marker-in-panguan-island/

Kalinaw News: Philippine Army step-up HADR operations in Odette-damaged areas

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 28, 2021): Philippine Army step-up HADR operations in Odette-damaged areas



FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila – Philippine Army units continue the humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) operations in support of Typhoon Odette’s affected families in typhoon-stricken areas in Visayas and Mindanao.

Different Army units intensified their HADR operations and participated in the rehabilitation efforts in Southern Leyte, Bohol, Cebu, Negros Occidental, and other provinces in the Visayas devastated by the typhoon.

The Army Reserve Command and other engineer battalions committed to the road clearing operations in collaboration with the local government units of the affected areas to ensure the speedy transport of relief supplies for the affected residents.

Meanwhile, troops from the 30th Infantry Battalion (30IB) and 65th Infantry Battalion under the 4th Infantry Division supported the government’s relief operation in Barangay Cuarenta, San Jose, Dinagat Island. 30IB also provided transportation assistance to the stranded individuals going to the Port of Dapa and Airport in Del Carmen, Siargao Islands.

Other Army units in Eastern Visayas, North and Eastern Mindanao are also busy assisting the Local Government Agencies in their disaster response efforts. Other Army units not directly affected by Odette are focused on facilitating the donations of relief goods from private companies and individuals.

The 1st, 3rd, 4th, and 6th Infantry Divisions partnered with the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) to facilitate consolidations and distributions of relief goods from stakeholders. The divisions also continuously pursue donation drives as they open their lines for willing donors.

Army units also joined hands with other Major Services of the AFP in transporting and distributing relief goods to the affected areas.

Army Chief Maj. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr. acknowledges the troop’s effort in helping Odette affected citizens in these trying times. He directed all units to comply with the President’s directive to use available resources to support the affected residents to return to their normal lives.

“To our soldiers, once again, the Filipino people need our services, especially during this trying time. Let us give them a little comfort by doing our best in continuing humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations. To our fellow Filipinos in affected areas, do not lose hope. Rest assured that we will stand with you during these challenges; together, we will rebuild communities,” said Maj. Gen. Brawner.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/philippine-army-step-up-hadr-operations-in-odette-damaged-areas/

Kalinaw News: AFP’s Deputy Chief of Staff for Reservist and Retiree Affairs visits WestMinCom

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 28, 2021): AFP’s Deputy Chief of Staff for Reservist and Retiree Affairs visits WestMinCom



Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – December 28, 2021

Brig. Gen. Ferdinand Razalan, Acting Deputy Chief of Staff for Reservist and Retiree Affairs (AJ9) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines visited the Western Mindanao Command on December 27, 2021. He spearheaded the conduct of the two-day workshop on Crafting of the Office Functions, Duties, and Responsibilities of the recently established Office of the Assistant Chief of Unified Command Staff for Reservist and Retiree Affairs (OU9) of the command.

According to Brig. Gen. Razalan, the purpose of the workshop is to establish unity of effort through a well-defined command and support connection to ensure the effective and efficient, responsive, and better management of the Reserve Force.

Among the participants of the two-day workshop are the OU9 officers and enlisted personnel, Chief of Operations Branch, and the Commanders of the Army, Air Force, and Naval Reserve Centers (ARCEN, AFRESCEN, NRCEN). The desired output of the activity is the crafted functions, duties, and responsibilities of the OU9 for better management of the Reserve Force.

During the opening remarks, Col. Rey Pasco, the Assistant Chief of Unified Command Staff for Reservist and Retiree Affairs of WestMinCom said, “This day marks a momentous foundation for the OU9 as it primarily unveils the crafting of its office functions, duties, and responsibilities”.

OU9, WestMinCom was activated on August 12, 2021, purposely to supervise and oversee the Regional Community Defense Groups (RCDGs), ARCENs, NRCENs, and AFRESCENs as reservist administrators on their core competence that is to develop, organize, train, equip, support, sustain, and control (DOTESSC) and to organize, train, equip, and administer (OTEA) the reserve units.

“We are grateful to AJ9 and his staff for facilitating the conduct of this two-day workshop on Crafting of Office Functions, Duties, and Responsibilities of the recently established Office of the Assistant Chief of Unified Command Staff for Reservist and Retiree Affairs (OU9) of the command. This allows the newly-activated office to be fully operational,” WestMinCom Commander, Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario, Jr. said.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/afps-deputy-chief-of-staff-for-reservist-and-retiree-affairs-visits-westmincom/

Washington urged to unmask supporters of CPP-NPA in the U.S.

From the Mindanao Examiner (Dec 28, 2921): Washington urged to unmask supporters of CPP-NPA in the U.S.

FILIPINO-AMERICANS in New York staged a lighting rally and urged American authorities to investigate U.S.-based supporters of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA) for terrorist financing, recruitment, and other illegal activities.

Chanting anti-communist slogans and carrying Philippine flags and other banners, members of the Filipino-Americans Against Crime and Terrorism (FACT) marched Sunday evening along Roosevelt Avenue in Woodside, Queens, where they distributed leaflets denouncing the CPP-NPA and their supporters in the U.S. The rally coincided with the CPP’s 53rd founding anniversary.

“U.S. authorities should investigate CPP-NPA leaders, members, and supporters in the U.S. for terrorist financing, recruitment, and other illegal activities given the fact that the Department of State has designated it a terrorist organization as early as 2002,” FACT said in a statement.

“US authorities should impose additional sanctions on the CPP-NPA for crimes committed not just against Filipinos but also against Americans in the past 50 years. For those who are not aware, the CPP-NPA was responsible for the deaths of thousands, including a number of U.S. citizens, among them Vietnam War hero Col. James Rowe and several other American service members on duty in the Philippines,” it added.

Rowe was gunned down in Manila on April 21, 1989 by communist rebels Donato Continente and Juanito Itaas. Continente, who was captured and detained, was freed from prison in June 2005 after serving 14 years, and Itaas was ordered released just this month after 32 years in jail.

FACT also questioned the introduction of a bill in the U.S. Congress entitled the Philippine Human Rights Act (PHRA), which seeks to suspend U.S. military assistance to the Philippines because of alleged human rights violations.

The proposed legislation, according to the FACT, would benefit neither the Philippines nor the United States. “It is unfortunate that supporters of the CPP-NPA here in the U.S. were able to convince American legislators into supporting the PHRA by making them believe the Philippine government is on a rampage and is responsible for the deaths of thousands of innocent men, women, and children,” the group said.

“These groups conveniently failed to mention the horrendous atrocities committed by the CPP-NPA against the Filipino people—civilians accused of various crimes and who were later summarily executed in the name of “revolutionary justice,” it added.

The group called on the members of the Filipino community in the U.S. to let their representatives in Congress know their opposition to the PHRA “because the bill will benefit only those who have vowed to subvert the interests of both the Philippines and the United States and the Filipino and American peoples.”

“Instead of punishing the Filipino people by depriving their government of the security assistance needed to protect them against CPP-NPA atrocities, US authorities should assist Philippine authorities in defeating the communist insurgency the same way they are assisting in the fight against the Abu Sayyaf and other Islamist terrorist groups,” it added.

FACT said instead of suspending military assistance, U.S. authorities should provide technical and other assistance to help build the capacity of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police in protecting the Filipino people from drug syndicates and other criminal organizations while at the same time helping improve their human rights records.

It also urged the members of the Filipino community to be wary of CPP-NPA efforts to deceive them and their families, especially the youth, into supporting their self-serving goal of overthrowing the Philippine government and installing in its place a communist regime.

The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines. (Mindanao Examiner)

 
http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2021/12/washington-urged-to-unmask-supporters.html

WW2 corvette to serve as command post in Dinagat relief ops: Navy

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 28, 2021): WW2 corvette to serve as command post in Dinagat relief ops: Navy (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Photo courtesy of Philippine Navy

The Philippine Navy (PN) will be using the recently decommissioned World War II-era corvette, BRP Magat Salamat (PS-20), as a temporary command post for the duration of the relief operations in Dinagat Islands which was severely devastated by Typhoon Odette.

In a statement Monday night, PN spokesperson Commander Benjo Negranza said the ship will also be serving as a "mother-ship" for smaller naval craft now helping in the relief efforts.

"As a floating command post, PS-20 will once again play a critical role as a jumping-off point for various humanitarian assistance and disaster response units and other relief efforts for the people of Dinagat Island(s). She will act as a 'mother-ship' for smaller PN boats and crafts that are operating in the area," he added.

Negranza said the former BRP Magat Salamat will set sail again with a volunteer force composed mainly of its last crew.

The BRP Magat Salamat, along with BRP Miguel Malvar, was formally retired last December 10.

Both ships served the PN for 44 years. BRP Magat Salamat was acquired by the Philippine Navy in April 1976 and was originally commissioned in the US Navy as USS Gayety (AM-239) in 1945.

"Efforts are now underway to prepare for her relief voyage and to consolidate much-needed relief items for the people of Dinagat Island(s)," he added.

Aside from the humanitarian aid-focused vessels assembled by the PN and deployed in the areas devastated by the recent calamity, Negranza said the Navy intends to exhaust all available resources to assist other government agencies and partner stakeholders in providing relief and assistance to typhoon-stricken Filipinos.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1163878

Mobile kitchens, AFP transport assets used in 'Odette' response (By Priam Nepomuceno)

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 28, 2021): Mobile kitchens, AFP transport assets used in 'Odette' response (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Photo courtesy of AFP

The deployment of mobile kitchens is among the efforts of the military in helping those affected by the recent calamity aside from using its sea, air, and land transportation assets for the ongoing relief efforts.

This, as the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) deployed its mobile kitchen to feed communities in Cebu City severely affected by the onslaught of Typhoon Odette.

"Through the Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Logistics, OJ4; AFP Visayas Command; 14th Civil Military Operations Battalion, and the 3rd Civil Relations Group, the AFP Mobile Kitchen aims to serve three barangays in Cebu City until 29 December," said AFP public affairs office chief, Col. Jorry Baclor, in a statement Monday night.

On Christmas Day, the mobile kitchen served three hot meals each for around 1,000 residents of four sitios in Barangay San Roque.

On December 27, it moved to Barangay Ermita and Pasil where it also served an additional 3,000 meals for 1,000 residents.

"It is scheduled to park at Barangay Tejero on December 29 and is expected to continue operating in Cebu City until December 31," Baclor said.

Speaking to President Rodrigo Duterte during his pre-recorded address to the nation Monday night, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana expounded on the role of the AFP in the government's relief efforts for "Odette" battered provinces.

He said total air assets deployed for this effort numbered 35 aircraft which have so far conducted 147 sorties.

"Total weight of transported goods and equipment is 202,405 pounds; number of stranded tourists evacuated from Siargao to Manila is more than 300," Lorenzana added.

As for naval vessels, 15 ships have been deployed so far and the total weight of items transported is around 1,400 tons.

"Other updates, the Armed Forces conducted Rapid Damage Assessment through the concerned Unified Commands. They will also participate in the post damage assessment later on, Mr. President," he added.

Aside from transport assets, the military also deployed personnel to help in the clearing and rehabilitation operations in the devastated communities

"There’s a Marine Amphibious Ready Unit deployed for clearing operations in Cebu City. And the AFP also deployed a mobile kitchen in Cebu. And there is a carpentry team --- AFP Carpentry Team in Southern Leyte to help reconstruct destroyed houses and other facilities," Lorenzana said.

Aside from this, the AFP also provided medical assistance to the devastated communities like the BRP Ang Pangulo which was repurposed into a hospital and deployed in Siargao.

Lorenzana also said the nine Philippine-owned features in the Kalayaan Island Group were given their Christmas food and everything to celebrate the holidays via naval helicopter which was onboard a Navy ship.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1163879

DND, SoKor shipbuilder ink deal for 2 new corvettes

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 29, 2021): DND, SoKor shipbuilder ink deal for 2 new corvettes (By Priam Nepomuceno)

SIGNED. Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana (center) shows the copy of the signed contract with South Korean shipbuilder Hyundai Heavy Industries in a virtual ceremony at the DND main office in Quezon City on Tuesday (Dec. 28, 2021). The contract is for the acquisition of two brand-new missile corvettes worth PHP28 billion for the Philippine Navy. (Photo courtesy of DND)

MANILA – The Department of National Defense (DND) on Tuesday signed the PHP28-billion contract with South Korean shipbuilder Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) for the acquisition of two brand-new corvettes for the Philippine Navy, which are capable of conducting anti-ship, anti-submarine and anti-air warfare missions.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and HHI representative Ka Sam Hyun signed the deal in a virtual ceremony which was also attended by Minister Kang Eun-ho, head of South Korea's Defense Acquisition Program Administration, and HHI president and chief executive officer Chung Ki-Sun.

Other ranking DND, HHI, and officials of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), including chief-of-staff, Gen. Andres Centino and Navy chief Vice Admiral Adeluis Bordado also witnessed the event.

Lorenzana, in his speech, said they are very pleased that they are able to meet their target of having the PN Corvette Lot 1 Acquisition Project contract signed before the end of 2021 despite the delays caused by coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

"We are finally signing the contract, the last phase of the procurement process. For a total approved budget of PHP28 billion, this project will give the PN two modern corvettes that are capable of anti-ship, anti-submarine, and anti-air warfare missions," he added.

Lorenzana said acquiring the two corvettes from HHI, where the two Jose Rizal-class guided-missile frigates, will ensure commonality and interoperability.

The two ships will also serve as backstops for the two frigates now in commission with the PN.

"With a common shipbuilder for all our naval platforms, we expect ease of maintenance and repairs," the DND chief added.

Lorenzana also said he is commending HHI for being an active and reliable partner in the modernization program of the PN.

"Like the two frigates which were built in record time, we expect this acquisition project will likewise run smoothly," he added.

The Special Allotment Release Order (SARO) for the 15 percent advance payment for the PN's Corvette Acquisition Program (CAP) was released by the Department of Budget and Management last December 10.

The SARO worth PHP3.75 billion is intended to "cover the funding requirements for the 15 percent advance payment for the CAP of the PN under the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program."

"They are smaller than the (two Jose Rizal-class frigates) but will also be sufficiently armed," Lorenzana said when asked for a description of the ships.

The two Jose Rizal-class frigates measure 107 meters and weigh around 2,600 tons.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1163890

Contracts for Black Hawk choppers, OPVs possibly out by January

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 29, 2021): Contracts for Black Hawk choppers, OPVs possibly out by January (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana (File photo)

MANILA – Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana expressed hope that the contracts for the additional 32 Polish-made S-70i "Black Hawk" combat utility helicopters and six offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) will be finalized and signed by January.

"Those (Black Hawks and OPVs) could be the last two contracts to be signed next month," Lorenzana said when asked if there will be other major modernization contracts signed, shortly after the signing of the PHP28 billion contract for two missile corvettes with South Korean shipbuilder Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) on Tuesday.

Lorenzana earlier said the government has allocated a total of PHP62 billion for the acquisition of 32 "Black Hawk" combat utility helicopters for the Air Force and six OPVs for the Philippine Navy.

"Newly approved funding for capital assets acquisition: 32 units 'Black Hawk' helicopters - PHP32 billion and six units of OPV - PHP30 billion," he added.

Asked where the country intends to acquire the additional helicopters and OPVs, Lorenzana replied, "OPV with Austal (the Australian defense manufacturer and shipbuilder) and 'Black Hawk' from PZL Mielec, Poland."

He, however, clarified that there is still no contract issued for these assets as it is “still under negotiation.”

Meanwhile, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) on December 27 released two Special Allotment Release Orders (SAROs) to cover the initial funding requirements of the "Shore-Based Anti-Ship Missile System Acquisition Project of the Philippine Navy under the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program."

The first SARO is worth PHP1.3 billion while the second is worth PHP1.535 billion.

Earlier reports said the medium-range ramjet supersonic BrahMos cruise missile system is being eyed for this project.

The BrahMos cruise missile can be launched from a ship, aircraft, submarine, or land and has a top of Mach 3 and is capable of carrying warheads weighing 200 kg. to 300 kg.

The acquisition of a land-based missile system is under Horizon Two of the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program, which is slated for 2018 to 2022 and geared for the acquisition of equipment for external defense. It has a budget of PHP300 billion.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1163977

PAF transports 2.2K tons of relief goods to 'Odette'-hit areas

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 29, 2021): PAF transports 2.2K tons of relief goods to 'Odette'-hit areas (By Priam Nepomuceno)

AID ON THE WAY. Relief goods are loaded on a C-295 aircraft of the Philippine Air Force bound for Siargao in this undated photo. The Philippine Air Force said Tuesday (Dec. 28, 2021) it has transported 2,275 tons of relief goods for typhoon victims in various parts of the Visayas and Mindanao. (Photo courtesy of PAF)

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has transported 2,275 tons of relief goods to areas affected by the onslaught of Typhoon Odette.

"As of today, the PAF transported a total of 2,275 tons of relief goods, such as rice, water, canned goods, and toiletries, as well as generator sets and water tanks," PAF spokesperson Lt. Col. Maynard Mariano said in a statement Tuesday night.

The PAF also ferried 99 "locally stranded individuals" from Siargao to the Villamor Air Base in Pasay City on December 28 alone, he added.

"Meanwhile, personnel from the 355th Aviation Engineer Wing, along with several heavy equipment, were deployed from Basa Air Base to Mactan, Cebu to assist in the planning for recovery and rehabilitation of the typhoon-stricken areas," Mariano said.

On Christmas Day, PAF aircraft transported relief goods to Siargao, Surigao, Bohol, and Mactan, Cebu from Villamor Air Base in Pasay City.

The PAF's C-295, Fokker F-27, and NC-212i transport aircraft were used to bring 246 sacks of rice, five boxes of sardines, and 90 boxes of water, which will be distributed to those affected by “Odette”.

Two S-70i "Black Hawk" combat utility helicopters also delivered relief goods, 60 sacks of rice, and 30 sacks of assorted goods and medicine to Cagayancillo Island, Palawan.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Army's (PA) humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) operations continue in areas and communities ravaged by the typhoon.

Different PA units have intensified their HADR operations and participated in the rehabilitation efforts in Southern Leyte, Bohol, Cebu, Negros Occidental, and other provinces in the Visayas devastated by the typhoon, Army spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad said in a statement Tuesday night.

"The Army Reserve Command and other engineer battalions committed to the road-clearing operations in collaboration with the local government units of the affected areas to ensure the speedy transport of relief supplies for the affected residents," he added.

Meanwhile, troops of the 30th Infantry Battalion (30IB) and 65th Infantry Battalion under the 4th Infantry Division supported the government's relief operation in Barangay Cuarenta, San Jose, Dinagat Islands.

The 30th Infantry Battalion also provided transportation assistance to the stranded individuals going to the Port of Dapa and airport in Del Carmen, Siargao Islands.

Other PA units in Eastern Visayas, northern and eastern Mindanao have been assisting the local government agencies in their disaster response efforts.

Army units not directly affected by "Odette" are focused on facilitating the donations of relief goods from private companies and individuals.

The 1st, 3rd, 4th, and 6th Infantry Divisions partnered with the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) to facilitate consolidations and distributions of relief goods from stakeholders.

These divisions also pursued donation drives as they opened their lines for willing donors. Army units also joined hands with other major services of the Armed Forces in transporting and distributing relief goods to the affected areas.

Meanwhile, PA Chief, Lt. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr. acknowledged the troops' efforts in helping “Odette”-affected citizens.

He directed all units to comply with President Rodrigo Duterte's directive to use available resources to support the affected residents to return to their normal lives.

"To our soldiers, once again, the Filipino people need our services, especially during this trying time. Let us give them a little comfort by doing our best in continuing humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations. To our fellow Filipinos in affected areas, do not lose hope. Rest assured that we will stand with you during these challenges. Together, we will rebuild communities," Brawner said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1163975

US announces add'l P950-M 'Odette' aid

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 29, 2021): US announces add'l P950-M 'Odette' aid (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

File photo

The United States government on Wednesday announced an additional USD19 million (approximately PHP950 million) in humanitarian aid to help communities affected by Typhoon Odette, bringing its total assistance to the Philippines to more than PHP1 billion.

“The United States is pleased to announce additional and significant assistance of PHP950 million, which brings our total amount of aid for Typhoon Odette to over PHP1 billion. We stand steadfast with our long-standing friend, partner, and ally in helping support communities devastated by the typhoon,” US Embassy in the Philippines Chargé d’Affaires ad interim Heather Variava said in a statement.

Through the US Agency for International Development (USAID), the additional aid will provide food, water, hygiene supplies, and shelter assistance to the affected population.

The new funding is in addition to the PHP50 million Washington DC announced earlier to support emergency logistics efforts to ensure aid is delivered to those in hard-to-reach areas.

The US Embassy in Manila said it also builds on the PHP10 million assistance that the USAID provided immediately after the storm for food, water, and hygiene supplies, as well as to restore water supply services and sanitation facilities, and support hygiene promotion activities.

Variava, meanwhile, is expected to visit communities affected by “Odette” and see ongoing US relief activities.

“Odette” made landfall on December 16, bringing in destructive winds and torrential rains. The latest government data showed that more than 4.3 million people were affected across 11 regions in 6,115 barangays, with a total of 397 reported casualties and 1,147 injured.

According to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, more than 561,000 people have also been displaced with 305,229 people taking shelter in evacuation centers.

The embassy said Washington DC would continue to partner with the Philippines to respond to natural disasters and support Filipinos in their recovery efforts.

Through existing programs, the USAID’s partners are transporting relief supplies, including food provided by the Philippine government to feed nearly 103,000 families.

USAID partners are also helping manage evacuation shelters, deploy mobile operations vehicles to support emergency telecommunications, and provide heavy-duty plastic sheeting to meet the shelter needs of 4,800 families.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1163983

9 NPA rebels surrender in Sorsogon

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 28, 2021): 9 NPA rebels surrender in Sorsogon (By Connie Calipay)

NEW LIVES. Nine New People's Army rebels abandon the armed struggle in Sorsogon province on Sunday (Dec. 26, 2021). They also surrendered two firearms and an anti-personnel mine. (Photo courtesy of 9ID)

The continuous mass surrender of New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in the Bicol Region fans the flame of hope of peace-loving communities that communist insurgency will soon meet its total downfall.

On Tuesday, Maj. John Paul Belleza, Army's 9th Infantry Division spokesperson, confirmed that nine NPA rebels surrendered over the weekend to government troops in Sorsogon province.

They turned over two low-powered firearms, an anti-personnel mine, a printer, and propaganda materials.

Col. Aldwine Almase, commander of 903rd Infantry Brigade, assured the former rebels (FRs) of the government's help now that they have returned to the fold of the law and decided to embrace peaceful lives with their families.

"Tuloy-tuloy na ang kanilang pagbabagong buhay at tayo ay mananatiling nakaalalay sa kanila upang tiyaking sila at ang kanilang pamilya ay ligtas at may mapagkukunan ng maayos na hanapbuhay (Their lives will change and we are here to ensure that they are safe with their families and they have sources of income)," Almase said in a statement.

Police Regional Office 5 chief Brig. Gen. Jonnel Estomo and acting commander of Joint Task Force (JTF) Bicolandia, Brig. Gen. Adonis Bajao, recognized the bravery of the FRs for choosing peace over terrorism.

“We will celebrate New Year with new hope that we are united against insurgency. It is not impossible to win the war," Estomo said.

Bajao said the FRs will be celebrating what may be their happiest New Year “because they will now enjoy a new life, a life that they truly deserve".

The JTF Bicolandia said government-initiated engagements this month resulted in the killing of seven rebels and the confiscation of high-powered firearms, explosives, and propaganda materials.

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1163887

Soldiers lauded for neutralizing BIFF group sub-leader

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 28, 2021): Soldiers lauded for neutralizing BIFF group sub-leader (By Edwin Fernandez)

STRICT INSPECTION. Police and soldiers implement stringent checkpoint operations following clashes between Moro gunmen and government forces that left a Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters subleader dead in Shariff Saydona, Mustapha, Maguindanao on Sunday (Dec. 26, 2021). The precautionary measure is to avoid an escalation of violence in the area in anticipation of retaliatory attacks from the BIFF terror group. (Photo courtesy of Shariff Saydona Mustapha MPS)

The head of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division (6ID) has called on Moro rebel armed groups to grab the opportunity of availing the government’s reconciliation program as the national government continued its peace approaches in the southern Philippines.

Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, the Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander and head of Joint Task Force Central (JTFC), made the appeal Tuesday to the extremist groups following a brief clash that left a sub-leader of Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) killed in Maguindanao earlier this week.

"As part of the marching order of President Rodrigo Duterte, we are dedicated to putting an end to these terror groups," said Uy, appealing to the remnants of terror groups to return to the fold of the law and live a peaceful life with their families.

Zukarno Guilil, alias “Commander Motorola,” a sub-leader of the BIFF Kagi Karialan faction, was killed after he and his men clashed with government forces belonging to the 6th Infantry Battalion (IB) in Barangay Ganta, Shariff Saydona Mustapha, Maguindanao on December 26.

Lt. Col. Charlie Banaag, the 6IB commander, said the armed clash erupted when his men were sent to verify reports from civilians about the presence of gunmen in Barangay Ganta.

As the soldiers were approaching, they were fired upon, triggering a brief firefight until the rebels fled deep into the marshland, leaving behind the body of Guilil.

Soldiers found two grenades beside Guilil, a bomb-making expert, while his rifle was believed to be taken by his fleeing comrades.

Uy said Guilil was responsible for various attacks and bombings in Maguindanao and has several warrants of arrests for murder, multiple attempted murder, destructive arson, and violation of the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020.

"The neutralization of alias Motorola gives justice to all victims of BIFF atrocities. The lead given by the residents further shows their desire for a stoppage to the terror group," Col. Pedro Balisi, commander of 1st Mechanized Brigade, the mother unit of the 6IB, said.

Uy vowed to continue hunting down the remnants of the BIFF and Dawlah Islamiya who have been attacking communities in Central Mindanao for almost a decade.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1163902

Army vows justice for Negrense killed by NPA rebels

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 28, 2021): Army vows justice for Negrense killed by NPA rebels (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

GUNNED DOWN. A police investigator documents the shooting of Mario Landisa, a resident of Sitio Mantuhod, Barangay Cabacungan in La Castellana, Negros Occidental on Dec. 20, 2021. The victim died after he was shot by four men, who introduced themselves as CPP-NPA rebels, after refusing to give food and cash as their family was then reeling from the devastation of Typhoon Odette. (Photo courtesy of 303rd Infantry Brigade, Philippine Army)

The Philippine Army’s 303rd Infantry Brigade (IBde) has vowed to bring to justice the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) rebels responsible for killing a resident of La Castellana, Negros Occidental on December 20.

According to the military report, victim Mario Landisa, 53, a resident of Sitio Mantuhod in Barangay Cabacungan, was gunned down by four armed men after he refused to give them food and cash.

Brig. Gen. Inocencio Pasaporte, commander of 303IBde, commended the courage of the people of La Castellana, particularly those in Barangay Cabacungan, for rising against the atrocities of the CPP-NPA.

“We will not let this pass. We will bring to account all those behind this despicable act against an innocent civilian amid the destruction brought by Typhoon Odette. The full might of the law will take its course,” Pasaporte said in a statement on Tuesday.

One of the suspects, Joveto Landisa Leonar, the victim’s cousin, has already been arrested by the police, based on a report on Monday.

The four armed men, who were speaking in Cebuano, introduced themselves as members of the CPP-NPA, it added.

Pasaporte thanked the residents for providing information in seeking justice for the victim.

Based on initial investigation, the rebels demanded rice and money from Landisa, who refused because he also needs to provide for his family as they have been affected by Typhoon Odette.
Pasaporte said the incident shows the fight against the CPP-NPA no longer just involves the security forces.

“It is a fight of the entire people in Negros Island. The CPP-NPA does not value life. They do not have a conscience,” he added.

The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

The Anti-Terrorism Council also formally designated the National Democratic Front as a terrorist organization on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and separate part” of the CPP-NPA that was created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1163921