From the Mindanao Times (Apr 25): Don’t pay NPA
DILG warns against ‘permit to campaign’ fees in rebel-infested areas.
THE DEPARTMENT of Interior and Local Government (DILG) in Davao region yesterday warned barangay and youth candidates from giving funds to the communist rebels to gain permits to campaign in areas controlled by the Reds.This as the police regional command is monitoring hotspots areas in the region, particularly those under NPA control, following the murder of a re-electionist barangay captain in Monkayo, Compostela Valley.
DILG Regional Director Alex Roldan said barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan bets would be charged for rebellion if they gave funds to the communist.
“It is illegal,” Roldan said on the act of candidates who give funds to the communist rebels. “We discourage that.”
Since the authorities are not privy to any deal entered by the candidates with the rebels, Roldan admitted it is really a “problem during election.”
Candidates, particularly in rebel-infested territories, are forced to pay the New People’s Army (NPA) for security reasons.
Roldan said he is coordinating with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to monitor candidates if they gave funds to the rebels in exchange for the permit to campaign.
“If there’s evidence that the candidates gave fee to the NPAs, then they could be charged for rebellion,” he added.
Assessing
The Davao Police Regional Office XI is in the process of consolidating the election watch list areas and areas of concern
Chief Insp. MIlgrace Driz, spokesperson of PRO XI, said the provincial security join coordinating committee, led by the Commission on Elections, convened yesterday to identify the election watch list areas.
“We are focusing on these areas because the Comelec will make measures,” Driz said.
The Comelec action may include the deployment of police and military personnel in far-flung areas and areas that are identified to have the presence of communist group and private armed group and those with history of previous election-related violence.
http://mindanaotimes.net/dont-pay-npa/
Tuesday, April 24, 2018
Slain NPA member only 15 years old: authorities
From the Mindanao Times (Apr 25): Slain NPA member only 15 years old: authorities
THE COMMUNIST rebel killed in an encounter in Barangay Astorga, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur on April 21 was only 15 years old, the military said. According to the report made by Lt. Col. Rhojun Rosales, commander of 39th Infantry Battalion, the fatality was identified as Rondi Ondo from Sitio Tombo, Barangay Old Bulatukan, Makilala, North Cotabato.
Balagtey said the teenager was identified by his mother Marissa A. Ondo at a funeral parlor in Sta Cruz, Davao Del Sur.
Ondo’s body was recovered at the encounter site still clad in the black NPA uniform and carrying his M16 rifle.
Members of the Scene of the Crime Operatives, along with the PNP Provincial Police Office, processed the encounter site. They also conducted an autopsy on Ondo and confirmed that he was still a minor.
Lt. Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr., commander of Eastern Mindanao Command, condemned the New People’s Army’s continued recruitment of minors to fight its battles.
“It’s so sad to note that despite the worldwide call to spare children in armed struggle, the NPA terrorists continued to arm them and use them,” he said. “Let children be children, and allow them to play, learn, enjoy and experience the beauty of being a child and spare them from indoctrinating hatred and violence, ” Madrigal said.
Meanwhile, Lt Col. Rhojun Rosales, commander of the 39th Infantry Battalion, facilitated the transport of the remains of Ondi Ondo and the earlier identified NPA leader Julito Pueblas alias Taghoy, 62, from Sitio Pangayasan, Barangay Kisante to their respective families on April 22, 2018.
On the other hand, Jessa Lumana who was seized in the encounter site was already detained at the Sta Cruz Municipal Police Station to face criminal charge.
http://mindanaotimes.net/slain-npa-member-only-15-years-old-authorities/
THE COMMUNIST rebel killed in an encounter in Barangay Astorga, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur on April 21 was only 15 years old, the military said. According to the report made by Lt. Col. Rhojun Rosales, commander of 39th Infantry Battalion, the fatality was identified as Rondi Ondo from Sitio Tombo, Barangay Old Bulatukan, Makilala, North Cotabato.
Balagtey said the teenager was identified by his mother Marissa A. Ondo at a funeral parlor in Sta Cruz, Davao Del Sur.
Ondo’s body was recovered at the encounter site still clad in the black NPA uniform and carrying his M16 rifle.
Members of the Scene of the Crime Operatives, along with the PNP Provincial Police Office, processed the encounter site. They also conducted an autopsy on Ondo and confirmed that he was still a minor.
Lt. Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr., commander of Eastern Mindanao Command, condemned the New People’s Army’s continued recruitment of minors to fight its battles.
“It’s so sad to note that despite the worldwide call to spare children in armed struggle, the NPA terrorists continued to arm them and use them,” he said. “Let children be children, and allow them to play, learn, enjoy and experience the beauty of being a child and spare them from indoctrinating hatred and violence, ” Madrigal said.
Meanwhile, Lt Col. Rhojun Rosales, commander of the 39th Infantry Battalion, facilitated the transport of the remains of Ondi Ondo and the earlier identified NPA leader Julito Pueblas alias Taghoy, 62, from Sitio Pangayasan, Barangay Kisante to their respective families on April 22, 2018.
On the other hand, Jessa Lumana who was seized in the encounter site was already detained at the Sta Cruz Municipal Police Station to face criminal charge.
http://mindanaotimes.net/slain-npa-member-only-15-years-old-authorities/
Wounded NPA leader captured
From the Mindanao Times (Apr 25): Wounded NPA leader captured
AN ALLEGED vice commander of the New People’s Army (NPA) was captured by the 27th Infantry Battalion after an encounter in Sitio Salbuyan, Barangay Amsipit, Maasim, Sarangani Province on Monday morning.
Capt. Mc Gary Dida, the civil-military operations officer of the 1002nd Infantry Brigade, identified the fighter as Pablito Torno alias Jebjeb.
In a report given by Lt. Col Jones Brisal Otida, the commander of 27th IB, said that soldiers captured the wounded NPA at Sitio Lunay, Barangay Amsipit, Maasim, Sarangani province seven hours after the encounter.
Torno was reportedly wandering around the area and left behind by his comrades. He was immediately given first aid before being evacuated to a hospital in General Santos City for medical attention.
The battalion already coordinated with the police for the filing of a charge against the rebel.
Meanwhile, the troops also recovered three M16 rifles; one hand grenade; one rifle grenade; three Baofeng HH radios; eight jungle backpacks with personal belongings, and subversive documents.
http://mindanaotimes.net/wounded-npa-leader-captured/
AN ALLEGED vice commander of the New People’s Army (NPA) was captured by the 27th Infantry Battalion after an encounter in Sitio Salbuyan, Barangay Amsipit, Maasim, Sarangani Province on Monday morning.
Capt. Mc Gary Dida, the civil-military operations officer of the 1002nd Infantry Brigade, identified the fighter as Pablito Torno alias Jebjeb.
In a report given by Lt. Col Jones Brisal Otida, the commander of 27th IB, said that soldiers captured the wounded NPA at Sitio Lunay, Barangay Amsipit, Maasim, Sarangani province seven hours after the encounter.
Torno was reportedly wandering around the area and left behind by his comrades. He was immediately given first aid before being evacuated to a hospital in General Santos City for medical attention.
The battalion already coordinated with the police for the filing of a charge against the rebel.
Meanwhile, the troops also recovered three M16 rifles; one hand grenade; one rifle grenade; three Baofeng HH radios; eight jungle backpacks with personal belongings, and subversive documents.
http://mindanaotimes.net/wounded-npa-leader-captured/
4 towns on close watch
From the Visayan Daily Star (Apr 24): 4 towns on close watch
Four towns in Negros Occidental are now being closely monitored by the Philippine National Police, in connection with the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections on May 14, because of numerous shooting incidents that recently took place in them.
The New People’s Army recently claimed responsibility for the killing of a retired Army soldier and a policeman in Isabela, as well as the attempt to kill a Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team member in Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental.
The Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office also recorded other killings in the upland areas of Toboso and Calatrava, and in Moises Padilla, but it has not been established if they were insurgency-related.
Senior Supt. Rodolfo Castil, provincial police director of Negros Occidental, yesterday said they have already started re-aligning their forces for election-related purposes, to ensure a peaceful and orderly election on May 14.
Castil said he foresees possible trouble that may arise in those areas during the election.
He added that they are also coordinating with the 303rd Infantry Brigade to secure the hinterland areas of Negros Occidental.
Troopers of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 6 are also augmenting the Negros Occidental PNP in securing the province during the May 14 elections.
Ninety-three of the 601 barangays in Negros Occidental, excluding Bacolod City, have been reported by the military to be either infiltrated, or under the influence of the CPP-NPA.
Capt. Eduardo Precioso, Public Affairs Office chief of the Army’s 3rd Infantry Division, however, said that the 93 barangays, communist rebels have established their influence in 26.
Precioso said it is up to the Commission on Election to determine if those barangays will be included in the Election Watchlist Areas (EWAS), in line with the synchronized barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections on May 14.
The Provincial Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Center, which is composed of the Commission on Elections, Armed Forces of the Philippines and National Police, in Negros Occidental, is slated to convene next week to discuss security-related concerns.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2018/April/24/topstory1.htm
Four towns in Negros Occidental are now being closely monitored by the Philippine National Police, in connection with the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections on May 14, because of numerous shooting incidents that recently took place in them.
The New People’s Army recently claimed responsibility for the killing of a retired Army soldier and a policeman in Isabela, as well as the attempt to kill a Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team member in Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental.
The Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office also recorded other killings in the upland areas of Toboso and Calatrava, and in Moises Padilla, but it has not been established if they were insurgency-related.
Senior Supt. Rodolfo Castil, provincial police director of Negros Occidental, yesterday said they have already started re-aligning their forces for election-related purposes, to ensure a peaceful and orderly election on May 14.
Castil said he foresees possible trouble that may arise in those areas during the election.
He added that they are also coordinating with the 303rd Infantry Brigade to secure the hinterland areas of Negros Occidental.
Troopers of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 6 are also augmenting the Negros Occidental PNP in securing the province during the May 14 elections.
Ninety-three of the 601 barangays in Negros Occidental, excluding Bacolod City, have been reported by the military to be either infiltrated, or under the influence of the CPP-NPA.
Capt. Eduardo Precioso, Public Affairs Office chief of the Army’s 3rd Infantry Division, however, said that the 93 barangays, communist rebels have established their influence in 26.
Precioso said it is up to the Commission on Election to determine if those barangays will be included in the Election Watchlist Areas (EWAS), in line with the synchronized barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections on May 14.
The Provincial Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Center, which is composed of the Commission on Elections, Armed Forces of the Philippines and National Police, in Negros Occidental, is slated to convene next week to discuss security-related concerns.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2018/April/24/topstory1.htm
Trade union violations revealed in fact-finding mission
From the often pro-Communist Party of the Philippines online publication the Davao Today (Apr 24): Trade union violations revealed in fact-finding mission
http://davaotoday.com/main/human-rights/trade-union-violations-revealed-in-fact-finding-mission/
Delegates of the National Fact Finding Mission (NFFM) headed by the Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) held on February 18-19, 2018 in Compostela town, Compostela Valley. (Contributed photo)
DAVAO CITY, Philippines – A National Fact Finding Mission (NFFM) headed by the Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) condemned on Friday the rise of human rights violations and union busting in Compostela town.
DAVAO CITY, Philippines – A National Fact Finding Mission (NFFM) headed by the Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) condemned on Friday the rise of human rights violations and union busting in Compostela town.
Banana plantation workers of Sumitomo Fruit told the NFFM held on February 18-19, that the violations intensified after eight KMU-affiliated unions of Sumifru Philippines submitted a proposal for a collective bargaining agreement (CBA) to the management.
The NFFM documented 286 human rights violations involving cases of coercion, displacement from their homes, harassment, intimidation, illegal entry into their houses and planting of fake evidence.
Eliazar Dongkoy, chairperson of MAPARAT Montevista Workers Union said that soldiers falsely accused the workers as front liners of the New People’s Army (NPA), and forced them to surrender.
The NFFM documented 286 human rights violations involving cases of coercion, displacement from their homes, harassment, intimidation, illegal entry into their houses and planting of fake evidence.
Eliazar Dongkoy, chairperson of MAPARAT Montevista Workers Union said that soldiers falsely accused the workers as front liners of the New People’s Army (NPA), and forced them to surrender.
“We were questioned by the Philippine National Police and the 66th Infantry Battalion (of the Philippine Army) after sending us letters to appear in the barangay. Soldiers told us that union dues were being used in the purchase of guns for the NPA,” Dongkoy said.
He asserted that the union dues are used for union-related activities.
The authorities also wanted workers to join in the management unions rather than in KMU-affiliated unions, he added.
KMU pointed out that the clear intent of these human rights violations was union busting.
KMU national secretary-general Jerome Adonis said that the 66th IB is harassing Sumifru Union members, calling them terrorists and warning them against engaging in legitimate union activities.
He asserted that the union dues are used for union-related activities.
The authorities also wanted workers to join in the management unions rather than in KMU-affiliated unions, he added.
KMU pointed out that the clear intent of these human rights violations was union busting.
KMU national secretary-general Jerome Adonis said that the 66th IB is harassing Sumifru Union members, calling them terrorists and warning them against engaging in legitimate union activities.
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Region XI in its report to Undersecretary Joel Maglunsod said, they invited the Philippine Army and the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) in a Regional Tripartite Monitoring Body meeting to discuss the NFFM results.
The report stated that the AFP was conducting barangay visitations under the Community Support Program.
According to the 10th ID spokesperson Capt. Jerry Lamusao, the FFM can immediately file cases “if they deem it necessary and or they have the probable cause to do so.”
The report stated that the AFP was conducting barangay visitations under the Community Support Program.
According to the 10th ID spokesperson Capt. Jerry Lamusao, the FFM can immediately file cases “if they deem it necessary and or they have the probable cause to do so.”
“The unions are not harassed. Instead, our units have actually rescued these workers when they sought refuge to the Army after NPAs deceived them to go against their employer,” he said.
He added that the 10th ID is not against unions because it is permitted under the Constitution.
“There are just people running it to destroy companies that brought jobs to the community,” he said.
The CHR Region XI was said to have told the concerned parties should be invited in the Regional Tripartite Monitoring Body (RTMB) to immediately resolve the allegations.
The RTMB agreed to conduct a community dialogue.
Carlo Olalo, KMU-SMR secretary general said that despite the threats, they will continue to support Sumifru union members in their goal of obtaining a CBA that ensures fair wages and job security for all its workers.
The Center for Trade Union and Human Rights showed an increase in the number of cases of threats, harassment and intimidations towards workers and the urban poor. From 88 in former President Noynoy Aquino’s six-year term, the figures rose to 500 during the first year of President Duterte’s term.
There were 21 reported killings of union members, 602 documented cases of assaults in the picket lines of workers and 86 arbitrary arrests and detentions.
He added that the 10th ID is not against unions because it is permitted under the Constitution.
“There are just people running it to destroy companies that brought jobs to the community,” he said.
The CHR Region XI was said to have told the concerned parties should be invited in the Regional Tripartite Monitoring Body (RTMB) to immediately resolve the allegations.
The RTMB agreed to conduct a community dialogue.
Carlo Olalo, KMU-SMR secretary general said that despite the threats, they will continue to support Sumifru union members in their goal of obtaining a CBA that ensures fair wages and job security for all its workers.
The Center for Trade Union and Human Rights showed an increase in the number of cases of threats, harassment and intimidations towards workers and the urban poor. From 88 in former President Noynoy Aquino’s six-year term, the figures rose to 500 during the first year of President Duterte’s term.
There were 21 reported killings of union members, 602 documented cases of assaults in the picket lines of workers and 86 arbitrary arrests and detentions.
http://davaotoday.com/main/human-rights/trade-union-violations-revealed-in-fact-finding-mission/
4 people strafed at Basilan sea
From the Mindanao Examiner (Apr 24): 4 people strafed at Basilan sea
Unidentified gunmen strafed a motorized boat on Tuesday and wounded at least 4 people off the restive province of Basilan in southern Philippines, police said.
It said the attackers, who were also on a boat, opened fire on the victims who came from the town of Lantawan and on their way to the neighboring province of Sulu. Both Basilan and Sulu are part of the Muslim autonomous region.
The victims were rescued and brought to Zamboanga City for emergency medical treatment.
The motive of the attack was unknown and no individual or group claimed responsibility for the strafing, the second strafing since last week.
Gunmen also rained bullets on a house in Ungkaya Pukan and killed four of its occupants, one of them a former village chieftain. Police said it arrested one of the suspects in the killing. It was unclear whether the attack was an offshoot of a clan war or political violence since village elections are up coming.
Political violence is notorious in the autonomous region where various rebel groups are actively operating and clan war always play a part in the polls where opposing or feuding candidates themselves are fighting over elected positions.
http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2018/04/4-people-strafed-at-basilan-sea.html
Unidentified gunmen strafed a motorized boat on Tuesday and wounded at least 4 people off the restive province of Basilan in southern Philippines, police said.
It said the attackers, who were also on a boat, opened fire on the victims who came from the town of Lantawan and on their way to the neighboring province of Sulu. Both Basilan and Sulu are part of the Muslim autonomous region.
The victims were rescued and brought to Zamboanga City for emergency medical treatment.
The motive of the attack was unknown and no individual or group claimed responsibility for the strafing, the second strafing since last week.
Gunmen also rained bullets on a house in Ungkaya Pukan and killed four of its occupants, one of them a former village chieftain. Police said it arrested one of the suspects in the killing. It was unclear whether the attack was an offshoot of a clan war or political violence since village elections are up coming.
Political violence is notorious in the autonomous region where various rebel groups are actively operating and clan war always play a part in the polls where opposing or feuding candidates themselves are fighting over elected positions.
http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2018/04/4-people-strafed-at-basilan-sea.html
PNP Caraga: ‘Sorry’ can’t bring back life of slain pastor
From the Philippine Information Agency (Apr 24): PNP Caraga: ‘Sorry’ can’t bring back life of slain pastor
The leadership of the Police Regional Office (PRO) 13 has slammed the apology made by the New People's Army (NPA) terrorists over the murder of a pastor in the hinterland of Gigaquit town, Surigao del Norte.
Chief Supt Noli Romana, PRO13 director, said that the apology of Ka-Oto, spokesperson of NPA’s Guerilla Front 16, would never lessen the grief of Pastor Jepti Acedo’s family.
Acedo, 32 and his companions Virgil Flor Ortiz, 23; and Abner Malaque, 20, were riding on a motorcycle when riddled with bullets by the NPA terrorists using high-powered firearms in Brgy. Lahi on April 18, 2018.
“This brutal incident is a grave violation of human rights and must be condemned by the peace-loving communities in Caraga. They are killing civilians contrary to their claim they are protectors of the people,“ RD Romana added.
The region’s police chief called on the people to withstand against the NPA deceptions and report their presence immediately to the nearest police/army unit.
http://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1007068
The leadership of the Police Regional Office (PRO) 13 has slammed the apology made by the New People's Army (NPA) terrorists over the murder of a pastor in the hinterland of Gigaquit town, Surigao del Norte.
Chief Supt Noli Romana, PRO13 director, said that the apology of Ka-Oto, spokesperson of NPA’s Guerilla Front 16, would never lessen the grief of Pastor Jepti Acedo’s family.
Acedo, 32 and his companions Virgil Flor Ortiz, 23; and Abner Malaque, 20, were riding on a motorcycle when riddled with bullets by the NPA terrorists using high-powered firearms in Brgy. Lahi on April 18, 2018.
“This brutal incident is a grave violation of human rights and must be condemned by the peace-loving communities in Caraga. They are killing civilians contrary to their claim they are protectors of the people,“ RD Romana added.
The region’s police chief called on the people to withstand against the NPA deceptions and report their presence immediately to the nearest police/army unit.
http://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1007068
Army brings medical services to IP communities in Sultan Kudarat
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 24): Army brings medical services to IP communities in Sultan Kudarat
AMPATUAN, Maguindanao – More than 270 individuals have benefitted in the medical and dental outreach program the military conducted in remote village here and those from nearby Esperanza, Sultan Kudarat province on Monday.
Lt. Colonel Lauro Oliveros, commander of the Army’s 1st Mechanized Infantry Battalion (MIB), led his officers and men in serving the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) of Barangay Marquez here and adjacent villages in Esperanza.
The outreach program was supported by the provincial government of Sultan Kudarat through the provincial mobile hospital with Dr. Rex Archangel Lamprea and his nurses in attendance.
“It was a successful outreach activity and the IPs were elated with the gesture,” Oliveros said in a statement.
“We are glad that we made them happy and healthy,” he added.
The services rendered were medical consultation, dental and circumcision operation, free haircut and free reading glasses for the elders.
The medical mission ended up with a total of 272 beneficiaries. Oliveros said all the beneficiaries were Indigenous People who have very limited or no access to health services at all.
The Army battalion commander said similar activities are being prepared for more communities, especially in far-flung areas where medical services could hardly reach.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1033065
AMPATUAN, Maguindanao – More than 270 individuals have benefitted in the medical and dental outreach program the military conducted in remote village here and those from nearby Esperanza, Sultan Kudarat province on Monday.
Lt. Colonel Lauro Oliveros, commander of the Army’s 1st Mechanized Infantry Battalion (MIB), led his officers and men in serving the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) of Barangay Marquez here and adjacent villages in Esperanza.
The outreach program was supported by the provincial government of Sultan Kudarat through the provincial mobile hospital with Dr. Rex Archangel Lamprea and his nurses in attendance.
“It was a successful outreach activity and the IPs were elated with the gesture,” Oliveros said in a statement.
“We are glad that we made them happy and healthy,” he added.
The services rendered were medical consultation, dental and circumcision operation, free haircut and free reading glasses for the elders.
The medical mission ended up with a total of 272 beneficiaries. Oliveros said all the beneficiaries were Indigenous People who have very limited or no access to health services at all.
The Army battalion commander said similar activities are being prepared for more communities, especially in far-flung areas where medical services could hardly reach.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1033065
Army combats Leyte insurgency with dancing soldiers
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 24): Army combats Leyte insurgency with dancing soldiers
Government troops in Leyte learned how to dance as a strategy to win the hearts of villagers in communities highly vulnerable to insurgency.
The dancing soldiers of the 78th Infantry Battalion (IB) based in Burauen, Leyte, have been performing in medical missions, school-based events, and other gatherings where soldiers are invited.
“By nature, Filipinos love to sing and dance. Dancing binds you with the community. It allows you to do what they want do and if you do it with them, they would relate to you,” said Col. Danilo Dupiag, 78th Infantry Battalion commanding officer.
Dupiag believes that they have earned the trust of people in far-flung communities through entertainment. In return, villagers have been providing intelligence information to the military.
Insurgency problem in Leyte is not as worse in Samar Island, but there is still a challenge for them to keep the insurgency situation from manageable to completely eradicated, he said.
The military official noted that convincing the people not to join the New People’s Army (NPA) is easier now because most of the NPA members are individuals who have criminal records and without ideology.
Dupiag added that even if the national government cancelled peace talks last year local peace initiative in the province has continued.
“I am very supportive to the peace talks that is why even the national government cancelled it last year, we continue doing that in the local level to show our sincerity. Through this, we are able to convince three rebels to surrender,” he said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1033059
Government troops in Leyte learned how to dance as a strategy to win the hearts of villagers in communities highly vulnerable to insurgency.
The dancing soldiers of the 78th Infantry Battalion (IB) based in Burauen, Leyte, have been performing in medical missions, school-based events, and other gatherings where soldiers are invited.
“By nature, Filipinos love to sing and dance. Dancing binds you with the community. It allows you to do what they want do and if you do it with them, they would relate to you,” said Col. Danilo Dupiag, 78th Infantry Battalion commanding officer.
Dupiag believes that they have earned the trust of people in far-flung communities through entertainment. In return, villagers have been providing intelligence information to the military.
Insurgency problem in Leyte is not as worse in Samar Island, but there is still a challenge for them to keep the insurgency situation from manageable to completely eradicated, he said.
The military official noted that convincing the people not to join the New People’s Army (NPA) is easier now because most of the NPA members are individuals who have criminal records and without ideology.
Dupiag added that even if the national government cancelled peace talks last year local peace initiative in the province has continued.
“I am very supportive to the peace talks that is why even the national government cancelled it last year, we continue doing that in the local level to show our sincerity. Through this, we are able to convince three rebels to surrender,” he said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1033059
PH Army’s 2ID camp upgrades facilities, gears up road projects
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 24): PH Army’s 2ID camp upgrades facilities, gears up road projects
CAMP GEN. MATEO CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal – The 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division (2ID) of the Philippine Army camp here spearheaded on Tuesday a road concreting project worth PHP 51 million and the upgrading of the Army Station Hospital facilities.
Rizal province 2nd District Representative Isidro S. Rodriguez Jr., 2ID Assistant Division Commander Brigadier General Glorivine Dida and Rizal District Engineer Adilbert B. Rosete - with some military officials - led the ground breaking and lowering of the time capsule for the road network project.
Captain Patrick Jay M. Retumban, chief of the 2ID public affairs office, said that the PHP51-million concreting of the camp’s road network will be implemented by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)-Rizal II District Engineering Office.
Retumban also said that the 2nd Army Station Hospital (2ASH) is also being upgraded from Infirmary level to Level 1 hospital.
He said the Level 1 hospital has surgical and maternity facilities, isolation room, dental clinics, secondary clinical laboratory, surgery room, blood station, first level X-ray and pharmacy.
“The hospital will not only benefit the soldiers of 2ID but this will also help the civilians in the province to access the quality medical service,” said Major General Rhoderick M. Parayno, the 2ID Commander.
The PHP10-million Phase-1 hospital upgrade project is under the Health Facility Enhancement Program (HFEP) of the Department of Health (DOH) in partnership with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
The Phase- 1 hospital project will be completed next month.
Parayno, together with 2ID officers and enlisted personnel also led the blessing of the newly renovated Division Inspector General’s and Officers’ Quarter and a Hino 500 dump truck issued by the Philippine Army to the 2ID base here on Monday.
He said the facilities and amenities upgrade inside Camp Capinpin is part of the program of the Command to give priority to the morale and welfare of the troops and civilian employees working in 2ID.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1033112
CAMP GEN. MATEO CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal – The 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division (2ID) of the Philippine Army camp here spearheaded on Tuesday a road concreting project worth PHP 51 million and the upgrading of the Army Station Hospital facilities.
Rizal province 2nd District Representative Isidro S. Rodriguez Jr., 2ID Assistant Division Commander Brigadier General Glorivine Dida and Rizal District Engineer Adilbert B. Rosete - with some military officials - led the ground breaking and lowering of the time capsule for the road network project.
Captain Patrick Jay M. Retumban, chief of the 2ID public affairs office, said that the PHP51-million concreting of the camp’s road network will be implemented by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)-Rizal II District Engineering Office.
Retumban also said that the 2nd Army Station Hospital (2ASH) is also being upgraded from Infirmary level to Level 1 hospital.
He said the Level 1 hospital has surgical and maternity facilities, isolation room, dental clinics, secondary clinical laboratory, surgery room, blood station, first level X-ray and pharmacy.
“The hospital will not only benefit the soldiers of 2ID but this will also help the civilians in the province to access the quality medical service,” said Major General Rhoderick M. Parayno, the 2ID Commander.
The PHP10-million Phase-1 hospital upgrade project is under the Health Facility Enhancement Program (HFEP) of the Department of Health (DOH) in partnership with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
The Phase- 1 hospital project will be completed next month.
Parayno, together with 2ID officers and enlisted personnel also led the blessing of the newly renovated Division Inspector General’s and Officers’ Quarter and a Hino 500 dump truck issued by the Philippine Army to the 2ID base here on Monday.
He said the facilities and amenities upgrade inside Camp Capinpin is part of the program of the Command to give priority to the morale and welfare of the troops and civilian employees working in 2ID.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1033112
2 NPA camps seized in Abra, Isabela
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 24): 2 NPA camps seized in Abra, Isabela
Troopers from the Northern Luzon Command (Nolcom) have captured two New People's Army (NPA) camps located in Abra and Isabela over the weekend.
NOLCOM spokesperson Lt. Col. Isagani Nato, in a statement Tuesday, said the 73rd Division Reconnaissance Company and the 24th Infantry Battalion, under Joint Task Force "Kaugnay" captured the abandoned rebel camp at Barangay Kilong-olao, Boliney, Abra around 4 a.m. Sunday.
The NPA camp has an approximate area dimension of 20 x 15 meters and can accomodate more or less 15 rebel fighters.
Recovered from the camp site were a bandolier, a sling bag, a bonnet and several cooking pots and other paraphernalias.
Around 6:40 a.m. the same day, troops from the 86th Infantry Battalion, of Joint Task Force "Tala" also seized another abandoned rebel camp while patrolling at Barangay Dicamay, Jones, Isabela.
Nato said the NPA camp can accommodate more or less 50 rebels and is equipped with five kitchens. Also recovered were contraceptive pills, batteries and food supplies.
"The relentless conduct of intelligence-driven combat operations by Nolcom troops denies the NPA terrorists the foothold and influence in the area preventing them to execute their hostile plans. Nolcom will sustain its efforts to conduct focused military operations in suspected enemy lairs to eventually eradicate threats to the community posed by these communist armed groups," he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1032981
Troopers from the Northern Luzon Command (Nolcom) have captured two New People's Army (NPA) camps located in Abra and Isabela over the weekend.
NOLCOM spokesperson Lt. Col. Isagani Nato, in a statement Tuesday, said the 73rd Division Reconnaissance Company and the 24th Infantry Battalion, under Joint Task Force "Kaugnay" captured the abandoned rebel camp at Barangay Kilong-olao, Boliney, Abra around 4 a.m. Sunday.
The NPA camp has an approximate area dimension of 20 x 15 meters and can accomodate more or less 15 rebel fighters.
Recovered from the camp site were a bandolier, a sling bag, a bonnet and several cooking pots and other paraphernalias.
Around 6:40 a.m. the same day, troops from the 86th Infantry Battalion, of Joint Task Force "Tala" also seized another abandoned rebel camp while patrolling at Barangay Dicamay, Jones, Isabela.
Nato said the NPA camp can accommodate more or less 50 rebels and is equipped with five kitchens. Also recovered were contraceptive pills, batteries and food supplies.
"The relentless conduct of intelligence-driven combat operations by Nolcom troops denies the NPA terrorists the foothold and influence in the area preventing them to execute their hostile plans. Nolcom will sustain its efforts to conduct focused military operations in suspected enemy lairs to eventually eradicate threats to the community posed by these communist armed groups," he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1032981
Army gets televisions from media giant
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 24): Army gets televisions from media giant
The Philippine Army (PA) on Monday received nine 32-inch television sets, fitted with ABS-CBN TVplus, from Operation Sagip – ABS-CBN Lingkod Kapamilya Foundation, Inc. during Monday's flag-raising ceremonies in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
Army spokesperson Lt. Col. Louie Villanueva said the donation was received by PA vice commander Major Gen. Robert M. Arevalo from Operation Sagip-ABS-CBN Lingkod Kapamilya Foundation, Inc. deputy director Marcel Riñon.
He added the donated entertainment packages will be distributed to the various military treatment facilities such as Army General Hospital, Kuta Major Cesar Sang-an Station Hospital, Camp General Capinpin Station Hospital, Camp Gen. Macarion Peralta Station Hospital, Camp Melchor Dela Cruz Station Hospital, Camp Gen. Gonzalo Siongco Station Hospital, Camp Gen. Vicente Lukban Station Hospital, Camp Col. Elias Angeles Station Hospital and Medical Dispensary – Army Reserve Command.
Riñon praised the PA for all of its initiatives and continuing effort not only in performing its traditional security task but as well as in helping the country in the various aspects of socio-economic development.
He made mentioned of the long standing partnership between the PA and ABS-CBN particularly in school building construction which is widely undertaken in the country.
“There’s always good reason to believe that in unity there is hope and progress. We have proven it many times in our numerous undertakings where soldiers transformed and exemplified their skills along side with the community to build schools for their children,” Riñon stressed.
As a token of appreciation, the PA presented a plaque to ABS-CBN Foundation Inc., which was received by the latter. Arevalo said the PA is very much grateful for the help and support of ABS-CBN as a partner agency in pursuit of its noble aspirations for the good of the people and country.
Moreover, “every effort, every act of kindness by our stakeholders does not only deliver relief to meet the basic needs of our soldiers – it also brings hope and relief to their spirits – for every act of kindness is a message of support and peace," he added.
The indication that the PA is winning and achieving its goal of serving the people and protecting the country is the result of survey conducted by Social Weather Station recently in which is garnered +72 satisfaction rating and +84 net trust rating.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1032986
The Philippine Army (PA) on Monday received nine 32-inch television sets, fitted with ABS-CBN TVplus, from Operation Sagip – ABS-CBN Lingkod Kapamilya Foundation, Inc. during Monday's flag-raising ceremonies in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
Army spokesperson Lt. Col. Louie Villanueva said the donation was received by PA vice commander Major Gen. Robert M. Arevalo from Operation Sagip-ABS-CBN Lingkod Kapamilya Foundation, Inc. deputy director Marcel Riñon.
He added the donated entertainment packages will be distributed to the various military treatment facilities such as Army General Hospital, Kuta Major Cesar Sang-an Station Hospital, Camp General Capinpin Station Hospital, Camp Gen. Macarion Peralta Station Hospital, Camp Melchor Dela Cruz Station Hospital, Camp Gen. Gonzalo Siongco Station Hospital, Camp Gen. Vicente Lukban Station Hospital, Camp Col. Elias Angeles Station Hospital and Medical Dispensary – Army Reserve Command.
Riñon praised the PA for all of its initiatives and continuing effort not only in performing its traditional security task but as well as in helping the country in the various aspects of socio-economic development.
He made mentioned of the long standing partnership between the PA and ABS-CBN particularly in school building construction which is widely undertaken in the country.
“There’s always good reason to believe that in unity there is hope and progress. We have proven it many times in our numerous undertakings where soldiers transformed and exemplified their skills along side with the community to build schools for their children,” Riñon stressed.
As a token of appreciation, the PA presented a plaque to ABS-CBN Foundation Inc., which was received by the latter. Arevalo said the PA is very much grateful for the help and support of ABS-CBN as a partner agency in pursuit of its noble aspirations for the good of the people and country.
Moreover, “every effort, every act of kindness by our stakeholders does not only deliver relief to meet the basic needs of our soldiers – it also brings hope and relief to their spirits – for every act of kindness is a message of support and peace," he added.
The indication that the PA is winning and achieving its goal of serving the people and protecting the country is the result of survey conducted by Social Weather Station recently in which is garnered +72 satisfaction rating and +84 net trust rating.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1032986
Japanese tank landing ship to visit Manila
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 24): Japanese tank landing ship to visit Manila
JS Osumi (LT-4001), a landing ship tank of the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF), will dock at Pier 15, Manila South Harbor for a goodwill visit starting Thursday to Saturday.
"JS Osumi is the frontrunner of the Osumi-class tank landing ships in the service of JMSDF. Heading the visiting more or less 140 officers and crew are the commander of Landing Ship Division One Capt. Tomonori Kobayashi and ship’s commanding officer Capt. Yuji Horikawa," Philippine Navy (PN) spokesperson Capt. Lued Lincuna said Tuesday.
He added that the PN will render customary welcome ceremony upon arrival of the vessel, to be followed by a port briefing on security and health aboard the JS Osumi.
Osumi-class landing ship tank vessels have a displacement of 8,900 tons and a length of 178 meters. She also has a beam of 25.8 meters and a draft of 6.0 meters and has a top speed of 22 knots.
JS Osumi is the third JMSDF ship to the visit the Philippines this year. Destroyer JS Akizuki visited earlier this month and JS Amagiri last February.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1033002
JS Osumi (LT-4001), a landing ship tank of the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF), will dock at Pier 15, Manila South Harbor for a goodwill visit starting Thursday to Saturday.
"JS Osumi is the frontrunner of the Osumi-class tank landing ships in the service of JMSDF. Heading the visiting more or less 140 officers and crew are the commander of Landing Ship Division One Capt. Tomonori Kobayashi and ship’s commanding officer Capt. Yuji Horikawa," Philippine Navy (PN) spokesperson Capt. Lued Lincuna said Tuesday.
He added that the PN will render customary welcome ceremony upon arrival of the vessel, to be followed by a port briefing on security and health aboard the JS Osumi.
Osumi-class landing ship tank vessels have a displacement of 8,900 tons and a length of 178 meters. She also has a beam of 25.8 meters and a draft of 6.0 meters and has a top speed of 22 knots.
JS Osumi is the third JMSDF ship to the visit the Philippines this year. Destroyer JS Akizuki visited earlier this month and JS Amagiri last February.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1033002
Simple solutions can curb insurgency problem: ERC chair
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 24): Simple solutions can curb insurgency problem: ERC chair
Sometimes the simple programs are the ones that work in solving complex problems like insurgency.
This was stressed by Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) chair Agnes Devanadera during the first conference on "Empowering Women Law Enforcers in the Philippines" held at the AFP Commissioned Officers' Club in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City Tuesday.
In attendance were representatives from various law enforcement agencies like the Philippine National Police, Coast Guard, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency.
In the same event, Devanadera said that during her term as mayor of Sampaloc town in Quezon in the late 1980s, she came up with counter-insurgency program that is simple, responsive and culturally apt for her town.
"So I have to think, ano ba ang target natin, sa (what is our target in terms of) counter-insurgency. Di ba talaga namang tao, hindi yung movement, hindi yung prinsipyo (It's the people, not the movement or the principle). Tao yan (These are people), ni-label lang natin na sila (ng) Red (We just labeled them as Red). Pero tao yan (But still, they are people). So I have to think of programs. So ano ba yung nakapaligid sa tao (What surrounds a person?), sa (an) individual person, sa (an) individual member of the community. The one around is not just the family, but the household. Because it's an ordinary thing among us that in every house there is not just a family but several members of the family," she added.
"And so the household composed of the purok, they comprise the barangay. And the barangays comprise the entire municipality. So what we did were programs. Programs coming from the national but localized. For example we had to identify the names and faces of the people who would be really the recipient of programs. So I started with a counter-insurgency program. Kailangan ma-identify ko sino sa isang barangay, sino sa isang purok, at sino sa household ang sumusuporta sa (I have to identify the people in the barangay, the people in the district, the people in the household who are supporting the) NPA (New People's Army), or active member of the NPA," Devanadera stressed.
The ERC chair admitted that identifying rebel members or supporters was really a challenge.
"And so I had some tool to determine whether there is presence of these people in my town especially those who are not from my town. So what did I use? I had occasioned to (present) my strategy to the Armed Forces and PNP at my level in Quezon. Natawa sila nung sinabi ko na (They laughed when I said) one of the tools that I found very effective in monitoring the presence of the insurgence. Ang sabi ko, ginamit ko po ang 'pandesal' (I said I used pandesal). It's a 'pandesal' strategy. It is something that is local and easy to monitor," she added.
And based on her experience, Devanadera said that sales of "pandesal" would often climb when there are NPAs or supporters in her town.
"And if the sale of pandesal in a specific area would have a dramatic increase, ang tawag ko doon may laman (I call it stuffed). And that's where we would have our intervention. All the agencies we would focus but we were very discreet. So ang tinawag nila sa akin sa programang iyan ay (So they call that program) pandesal strategy. That's how I started the counter-insurgency (campaign)," she disclosed.
While this approach is very "woman", the ERC chair claimed that she managed to break the backbone of the insurgency problem in Sampaloc, Quezon.
"So I felt that when I coined this strategy, it was a very woman approach. But it was very effective. And the rest is history, because i was able to really break the backbone of insurgency. I presented myself as an alternative government at that time. I stayed in the barangays and lived there for three days, and just being with people I made my assemblies very, I call it community friendly. Walang mahahabang (no long) speeches, and after that we would have dancing. And I think those are the small things that disarm the people who would have otherwise (remained) with the insurgents," she added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1033036
Sometimes the simple programs are the ones that work in solving complex problems like insurgency.
This was stressed by Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) chair Agnes Devanadera during the first conference on "Empowering Women Law Enforcers in the Philippines" held at the AFP Commissioned Officers' Club in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City Tuesday.
In attendance were representatives from various law enforcement agencies like the Philippine National Police, Coast Guard, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency.
In the same event, Devanadera said that during her term as mayor of Sampaloc town in Quezon in the late 1980s, she came up with counter-insurgency program that is simple, responsive and culturally apt for her town.
"So I have to think, ano ba ang target natin, sa (what is our target in terms of) counter-insurgency. Di ba talaga namang tao, hindi yung movement, hindi yung prinsipyo (It's the people, not the movement or the principle). Tao yan (These are people), ni-label lang natin na sila (ng) Red (We just labeled them as Red). Pero tao yan (But still, they are people). So I have to think of programs. So ano ba yung nakapaligid sa tao (What surrounds a person?), sa (an) individual person, sa (an) individual member of the community. The one around is not just the family, but the household. Because it's an ordinary thing among us that in every house there is not just a family but several members of the family," she added.
"And so the household composed of the purok, they comprise the barangay. And the barangays comprise the entire municipality. So what we did were programs. Programs coming from the national but localized. For example we had to identify the names and faces of the people who would be really the recipient of programs. So I started with a counter-insurgency program. Kailangan ma-identify ko sino sa isang barangay, sino sa isang purok, at sino sa household ang sumusuporta sa (I have to identify the people in the barangay, the people in the district, the people in the household who are supporting the) NPA (New People's Army), or active member of the NPA," Devanadera stressed.
The ERC chair admitted that identifying rebel members or supporters was really a challenge.
"And so I had some tool to determine whether there is presence of these people in my town especially those who are not from my town. So what did I use? I had occasioned to (present) my strategy to the Armed Forces and PNP at my level in Quezon. Natawa sila nung sinabi ko na (They laughed when I said) one of the tools that I found very effective in monitoring the presence of the insurgence. Ang sabi ko, ginamit ko po ang 'pandesal' (I said I used pandesal). It's a 'pandesal' strategy. It is something that is local and easy to monitor," she added.
And based on her experience, Devanadera said that sales of "pandesal" would often climb when there are NPAs or supporters in her town.
"And if the sale of pandesal in a specific area would have a dramatic increase, ang tawag ko doon may laman (I call it stuffed). And that's where we would have our intervention. All the agencies we would focus but we were very discreet. So ang tinawag nila sa akin sa programang iyan ay (So they call that program) pandesal strategy. That's how I started the counter-insurgency (campaign)," she disclosed.
While this approach is very "woman", the ERC chair claimed that she managed to break the backbone of the insurgency problem in Sampaloc, Quezon.
"So I felt that when I coined this strategy, it was a very woman approach. But it was very effective. And the rest is history, because i was able to really break the backbone of insurgency. I presented myself as an alternative government at that time. I stayed in the barangays and lived there for three days, and just being with people I made my assemblies very, I call it community friendly. Walang mahahabang (no long) speeches, and after that we would have dancing. And I think those are the small things that disarm the people who would have otherwise (remained) with the insurgents," she added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1033036
AFP chief to expedite modernization program
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 25): AFP chief to expedite modernization program
Newly-appointed Armed Forces of the Philippines chief-of-staff Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez vowed to expedite the processing of contracts relating to the AFP Modernization Program.
However, he assured the public that such matters will be done deliberately and prudently.
"The President is pushing us to make our modernization move forward. We need to choose people who can deliver results for our modernization,” Galvez said in a statement Tuesday.
The AFP Modernization Program is divided into three horizons, with the first lasting from 2013 to 2017, the second from 2018 to 2022 and third 2023 to 2028.
The Second Horizon calls for the acquisition of equipment more attuned to external defense missions.
The new AFP chief also promised to work hands-on and without delay.
He announced that he will not impose any “cut off time” in sending documents to him that needs to be acted upon-even past office hours.
"I am results-oriented. We must be outputs-oriented as we value teamwork and meritocracy. Be righteous. Be perfect, because any mistake may mean the lives of the people we have sworn to serve and protect; and the lives of our very own soldiers," the newly-appointed AFP chief added.
“We need the cooperation of everyone--Officers, Enlisted Personnel, and Civilian Employees--in translating the intent of the AFP into tangible realities,” he pointed out.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1033130
Newly-appointed Armed Forces of the Philippines chief-of-staff Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez vowed to expedite the processing of contracts relating to the AFP Modernization Program.
However, he assured the public that such matters will be done deliberately and prudently.
"The President is pushing us to make our modernization move forward. We need to choose people who can deliver results for our modernization,” Galvez said in a statement Tuesday.
The AFP Modernization Program is divided into three horizons, with the first lasting from 2013 to 2017, the second from 2018 to 2022 and third 2023 to 2028.
The Second Horizon calls for the acquisition of equipment more attuned to external defense missions.
The new AFP chief also promised to work hands-on and without delay.
He announced that he will not impose any “cut off time” in sending documents to him that needs to be acted upon-even past office hours.
"I am results-oriented. We must be outputs-oriented as we value teamwork and meritocracy. Be righteous. Be perfect, because any mistake may mean the lives of the people we have sworn to serve and protect; and the lives of our very own soldiers," the newly-appointed AFP chief added.
“We need the cooperation of everyone--Officers, Enlisted Personnel, and Civilian Employees--in translating the intent of the AFP into tangible realities,” he pointed out.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1033130
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